We’re nearly through all the numbers in our series looking at the Best Calgary Flames in franchise history based on the jersey number they wore. We’ve seen franchise greats, All-Stars, and Hall of Famers. As we near the end of our series we’ll see more numbers that haven’t been worn, including #72, #74, #75, & #78, but we still have some recognizable and impactful names on our list. Let’s get started with number 71.
Best Calgary Flames by Jersey Number: 71- 80
#71 – Walker Duehr (Right Wing)
Walkter Duehr burst onto the scene in 2022-2023 for the Calgary Flames. During his 27 games with the team, Duehr brought energy and speed to the Flame’s fourth line. He was consistent and reliable in his role and looked to be on his way to becoming a full-time Flame. Last season, Duehr struggled to repeat his impact on a consistent basis. Over 40 games last year, Duehr scored 2 goals and 7 points, compared to 5 goals and 11 points in fewer games the season prior. Duehr will be fighting to keep his role this season.
#73 – Tyler Toffoli (Right Wing)
Toffoli was one of Calgary’s best forwards during his two seasons with the franchise. Toffoli scored a total of 96 points in his 119 games. His best season came in 2022-2023 when he scored 34 goals and 73 points. Following his great season, the Flames chose to trade Toffoli to New Jersey and capitalize on his great 2022-2023 campaign.
#76 – Martin Pospisil (Centre)
Pospisil has played just one season in Calgary. Last season, Pospisil burst onto the scene in Calgary and after being called up he stuck with the big club all year long. He brings physicality and a pest element to the Flames that have endeared him to the fans. He’s earned a roster spot heading into the new season and will have big expectations for his sophomore season. His biggest hurdle will be availability. Pospisil has dealt with some significant injuries in the past. He was also suspended for 3 games and ejected from 2 others during his first season. Pospisil will need to learn to play on the edge, without crossing over. He tallied 8 goals and 24 points last season and will be hoping to build on this in 2024-2025.
#77 – Mark Jankowski (Centre)
His first-round selection was greatly criticized in 2012 as many considered it a reach at that spot in the draft. Unfortunately for Jankowski, it appears that sentiment was correct. He served primarily as a fourth line centre during his time with Calgary. In four seasons, he recorded 64 points in 208 games. He’s continued to carve out a career for himself as a depth forward after leaving Calgary in 2020. But he will be remembered by fans in Calgary as a missed pick in the first round.
#79 – Micheal Ferland (Left Wing)
A fifth-round pick of the Flames in 2010, Ferland made his debut in the 2014-2015 season. He was a fan favourite for his big hits and he found a home on the Flames top line alongside Johnny Gaudreau and Sean Monahan. Ferland will forever be remembered fondly in Calgary. During the 2015 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Ferland brought physical play and timely scoring to help the Flames defeat their rival Vancouver Canucks in the first round.
Honourable Mention – Cole Schwindt (Right Wing)
Schwindt joined the Flames as part of the Matthew Tkachuk trade to Florida. He’s been a solid AHL player for the Wranglers since joining the organization and played four games for the Flames this past season. He’s got an opportunity to push for the fourth-line centre role this season, but he will have competition to secure a full-time spot.
#80 – Daniel Vladar (Goaltender)
This next Calgary Flames jersey number is an easy decision. Calgary traded a third-round draft pick to Boston for Dan Vladar in 2021. Since arriving in Calgary he has served primarily as the backup to Jacob Markstrom. Over his 70 games played in Calgary, Vladar has 35 wins and two shutouts. He’s been a solid backup and at times looked like he could be an NHL starter. The franchise is preparing to give Dustin Wolf the opportunity to become the Flame’s starter, and it will be up to Vladar to prove he has what it takes to be a true number one goaltender in this league.
As we continue to climb higher into our final two lists of the series we’ll see fewer jerseys that have actually been worn. But we still have some recognizable and current Flames to come. View previous lists in the series; #1-10, #11-20, #21-30, #31-40, #41-50 #51-60, and #61-70. Also, be sure to check out other teams and how their franchises compare.
Main Photo: Brett Holmes-USA TODAY Sports
