Mikael Backlund

Mikael Backlund is a professional ice hockey player from Vasteras, Sweden, known for his role as a forward in the National Hockey League (NHL). Born on March 17, 1989, Backlund was drafted 24th overall by the Calgary Flames in the first round of the 2007 NHL Draft. He made his NHL debut in 2008 and has since been an integral part of the Flames lineup. Throughout his career, Backlund has showcased his skills as a center, contributing significantly to his team's performances. Standing at 72 inches tall and weighing 206 pounds, he is recognized for his strategic play and effective faceoff skills, boasting a faceoff win percentage of 51.2% in the 2025 regular season. In the same season, Backlund recorded 9 goals and 15 assists, accumulating 24 points over 39 games, with a shooting percentage of 9.8%. His ability to play both offensively and defensively has been crucial for the Flames, with notable contributions on special teams, including powerplay and shorthanded situations. Known for his consistent performance, Backlund has maintained a positive plus-minus rating, highlighting his effectiveness on the ice. With 17 years of experience in the NHL, Backlund continues to be a reliable player for the Calgary Flames, wearing jersey number 11. His career highlights include not only his scoring ability but also his defensive acumen, making him a well-rounded player in the league.