Mikael Backlund is a Swedish professional ice hockey centre and the captain of the Calgary Flames in the National Hockey League (NHL).
Born on March 17, 1989, in Västerås, Sweden, he stands 6 feet tall and weighs approximately 206 pounds.
Drafted 24th overall by the Flames in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, Backlund has spent his entire NHL career with Calgary, becoming one of the franchise’s most dedicated and longest-serving players.
Known for his two-way play, strong defensive instincts, faceoff skills, and leadership, he has developed into a reliable veteran centre and community figure.
Siblings
Mikael has one sister named Madelene Backlund.
Family moments have been highlighted in recent seasons, including emotional instances when Madelene and her nephew attended games and celebrated his milestones, such as goals scored in their presence.
His family ties extend to Swedish football through his uncle Gary Sundgren and cousin Daniel Sundgren.
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Career
Backlund began his hockey journey in Sweden with VIK Västerås HK, excelling in junior leagues and making early senior appearances in HockeyAllsvenskan.
After being drafted by Calgary, he split time between the AHL’s Abbotsford Heat and the NHL before fully establishing himself.
He also had a successful stint with the Kelowna Rockets in the WHL, contributing to their 2009 championship.
Over more than 1,100 NHL games, all with the Flames, Backlund has accumulated over 600 points while earning a reputation as one of the league’s top defensive forwards.
He has consistently contributed offensively, with career-highs including 22 goals and 53 points in the 2016-17 season as part of the effective “3M Line” alongside Matthew Tkachuk and Michael Frolík.
Injuries have occasionally interrupted his play, but his durability and consistency have been remarkable.
In 2023, he was named the 21st captain in Flames history, underscoring his leadership.
He signed a contract extension in 2025, keeping him with the team through at least the 2026-27 season.
Internationally, Backlund has represented Sweden with distinction, winning gold at the 2018 IIHF World Championship, along with other medals at World Juniors and senior Worlds.
Accolades
Backlund’s individual honors include the NHL’s King Clancy Memorial Trophy in 2022-23, awarded for leadership and humanitarian contributions to the community.
In his youth, he earned the TV-pucken Most Valuable Player Award and the Sven Tumba Award as best forward in 2006.
With the Flames, he has received the Ralph T. Scurfield Humanitarian Award for his charitable work.
He has also been recognized for milestone achievements, such as reaching 1,000 and 1,100 NHL games, often celebrated with family in attendance.
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