No doubt that the Calgary Flames are one of the most beloved in the National Hockey League. There are strong reasons for that. Through the years, the team has provided countless moments of glory and classic moments for their passionate fanbase. From their ‘C of Red’ celebrations to their dousing of the ice with champagne when they won the Stanley Cup in 1989, the Flames have had a profound effect on hockey history. To honor the amazing players that have made the Calgary Flames such a cherished team to millions of hockey fans, we’ve gathered the top 10 legendary players who have worn the Flaming ‘C’. And if you’re a player yourself and you like challenges and entertainment, nationalcasino.com/en_ca has what you want with thousands of games from poker, blackjack, slots and roulette.
1. Jarome Iginla
Jarome Iginla is widely regarded as one of the greatest Calgary Flames players of all time. Over his career with the Flames (1996-2013), he accumulated over 500 goals and 1,000 points, and he was the face of the franchise for many years. Not only did he produce significant stats on the ice, but he also demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities, having served as the team’s captain for multiple seasons. Iginla’s legacy with the Flames and the NHL as a whole is cemented, with numerous accolades and recognitions to his name.
2. Lanny McDonald
Lanny McDonald is a legendary figure in the world of hockey and particularly dear to Calgary Flames fans. Known for his iconic mustache and fiery playing style, McDonald had a career that spanned over 16 NHL seasons, with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Rockies, and most notably, the Calgary Flames. In his illustrious career, he recorded 500 goals and 506 assists in 1,111 games. McDonald’s most memorable moment came in 1989 when he helped lead the Flames to their first Stanley Cup victory, capping off his career in a storybook fashion. His leadership, both on and off the ice, left a lasting impact, and he was subsequently inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1992.
3. Joe Nieuwendyk
Joe Nieuwendyk is an iconic figure in the history of the Calgary Flames and the NHL. Over the course of his illustrious career, he played for various teams, but his tenure with the Flames is particularly celebrated. Nieuwendyk was a pivotal part of Calgary’s 1989 Stanley Cup-winning team, showcasing his exceptional talent and leadership. Across his entire NHL career, which spanned from 1986 to 2006 and included stints with the Flames, Stars, Devils, Maple Leafs, and Panthers, he registered 564 goals and 562 assists in 1,257 regular-season games. Following his playing career, Nieuwendyk ventured into hockey management, serving in executive roles for several NHL teams.
4. Theo Fleury
Theoren “Theo” Fleury is a name that is synonymous with Calgary Flames history. His fiery passion, undersized stature, and undeniable skill made him a fan favorite during his tenure with the Flames. Over the course of his NHL career, which began in 1988 and saw him play with multiple teams, Fleury accumulated 1,088 points in 1,084 games – a testament to his consistency and prowess on the ice. With the Flames, he was part of the iconic 1989 team that won the Stanley Cup. Post-retirement, Fleury has been an advocate for mental health and has shared his own personal struggles and triumphs, hoping to inspire and support others.
5. Mike Vernon
Mike Vernon is a celebrated goaltender in the history of the Calgary Flames and the broader NHL. Making his debut in the 1982-1983 season, Vernon played the majority of his career in Calgary, becoming a cornerstone of the team’s successes during the late 1980s and early 1990s. He was instrumental in the Flames capturing their first Stanley Cup in 1989, providing crucial saves and exhibiting exceptional poise in the net throughout the playoffs. Over his NHL career, which also included stints with the Detroit Red Wings, San Jose Sharks, and Florida Panthers, Vernon amassed 385 wins in 781 regular-season games. Post-retirement, Vernon’s contributions to the game have been recognized by the professionals of the game.
6. Al MacInnis
Al MacInnis is a legendary figure in the annals of the Calgary Flames and the NHL at large. Renowned for having one of the hardest slap shots in the history of the game, MacInnis was a formidable force on the blue line. Playing with the Flames from 1981 to 1994, he was a significant contributor to their 1989 Stanley Cup triumph. Over his entire NHL career, which also included a long tenure with the St. Louis Blues, MacInnis recorded 1,274 points in 1,416 regular-season games, an impressive feat for a defenseman. After his playing career, he transitioned to various roles in hockey management and development. For a detailed breakdown of his playing stats or updates on his post-playing career endeavors, you would need to consult the NHL’s official website or other current sports news sources.
7. Doug Gilmour
Doug Gilmour, often remembered for his tenacity and playmaking abilities, had an illustrious career in the NHL. While he is most associated with the Toronto Maple Leafs due to some of his most iconic moments and productive seasons taking place there, Gilmour was also an integral part of the Calgary Flames, with whom he won a Stanley Cup in 1989. During that championship run, Gilmour showcased his versatility and clutch performance, endearing him to Flames fans. Over his entire NHL career, he amassed 1,414 points in 1,474 regular-season games, showcasing consistent excellence across various teams. After retiring from active play, Gilmour took up roles in coaching and management.
8. Gary Roberts
Gary Roberts is a name etched in the history of the Calgary Flames and the broader NHL. He made his NHL debut with the Flames in the mid-1980s and quickly established himself as a reliable power forward, blending skill with physicality. His tenure with the Flames was marked by consistent performances, with a pinnacle moment coming in 1989 when he played a key role in helping the team capture its first Stanley Cup. Over the span of his NHL career, Roberts played in 1,224 regular-season games, recording 910 points. Notably, he also made remarkable comebacks from injuries, showcasing his resilience and dedication to the sport. Post-retirement, Roberts has become well-known for his fitness training programs, helping current NHL players optimize their physical conditioning.
9. Miikka Kiprusoff
Miikka Kiprusoff stands out as one of the most iconic goaltenders in Calgary Flames history and among the best in the NHL during his playing days. Hailing from Finland, he joined the Flames in the 2003-2004 season and made an immediate impact, leading them to the Stanley Cup Finals that year. Over his tenure with the Flames, Kiprusoff established numerous franchise records, including most wins by a goaltender in a season. He finished his NHL career with a record of 319 wins, a 2.49 goals-against average, and a .912 save percentage in 623 games—all predominantly with Calgary. His consistency between the pipes was a backbone for the Flames for a decade.
10. Craig Conroy
Craig Conroy is a name well-remembered by Calgary Flames fans, not only for his performance on the ice but also for his leadership and dedication to the franchise. Over his NHL career, Conroy played for the Flames in two separate stints, with the majority of his time spent wearing the flaming “C.” Known for his defensive prowess and playmaking abilities, Conroy racked up a total of 182 goals and 360 assists in 1,009 regular-season games. Beyond his playing days, he has remained an integral part of the Flames organization, transitioning into various roles within management. As of 2021, he was serving as an Assistant General Manager for the team. In May 2023, Conroy was passed to General Manager, becoming the 8th General Manager in Flames history.
These incredible players make up the legendary core of the Calgary Flames. They are responsible for the team’s lasting success throughout their decades in the National Hockey League. They also contribute to fan’s love and support to the team. Each one of them has had an immense impact on the team’s culture. And it’s safe to say that the Flames would not be what they are today without them.
