Best Calgary Flames Players of All Time

Calgary Flames right winger Jarome Iginla, center, slips past Colorado Avalanche defenseman Ryan O'Byrne, left, to direct a shot at goalie Semyon Varlamov, of Russia, in the third period of the Avalanche's 5-4 victory in an NHL hockey game in Denver on Thursday, Feb. 28, 2013.
(AP Photo/David Zalubowski)
  • Explore the Flames top icons, from Jarome Iginla to Gary Roberts.
  • Iginla was the face of the franchise for nearly two decades.
  • Goalie Miikka Kiprusoff was instrumental in the squad's run to the 2004 Stanley Cup Final.

The Calgary Flames’ journey in the NHL has been marked by extraordinary talents and unforgettable moments. This storied Canadian franchise has seen some of the greatest hockey players to ever lace up skates and set the ice ablaze.

From legendary goal scorers to defensive stalwarts, these players have etched their names in the annals of team history.

Best Calgary Flames Players of All Time

RankPlayerPositionFlames Years
1Jarome IginlaRight Wing1996-2013
2Lanny McDonaldRight Wing1981-1989
3Al MacInnisDefence1981-1994
4Theoren FleuryRight Wing1988-1999
5Miika KiprusoffGoalie2003-2013
6Joe NieuwendykCentre1986-1995
7Gary RobertsLeft Wing1986-1997

1. Jarome Iginla

Often near the top of the NHL odds board for multiple award categories, Jarome Iginla was the face of the Flames for nearly two decades and redefined the role of power forward with his combination of skill, physicality, and leadership. The franchise leader in goals (525), points (1095) and games played (1219), Iginla was one of the NHL’s most consistent offensive forces. 

He won the Art Ross Trophy, Rocket Richard Trophy, and was a finalist for the Hart Memorial Trophy three times in his Flames career. Iginla is one of the most beloved figures in Calgary Sports history. 

2. Lanny McDonald

Lanny McDonald’s iconic mustache and heart-and-soul play cemented his status as a Calgary legend. He was a key figure in the Flames’ 1989 Stanley Cup victory and sits sixth in franchise history with 215 goals. 

3. Al MacInnis

Known for his famed wooden stick and powerful slap shot, Al MacInnis was the cornerstone of the Flames’ blue line for over a decade. He won the 1989 Conn Smythe Trophy and was a huge part of Calgary’s Stanley Cup run. 

MacInnis still holds the Flames’ record for most assists in franchise history (609), sits third in points (822), and fifth in games played (803). 

4. Theoren Fleury

Theo Fleury’s fiery spirit and scoring prowess made him a fan favourite in Calgary. Despite his small stature, Fleury racked up 364 goals in Flames colours.

He won the 1989 Stanley Cup with Calgary and sits sixth in games played (791), second in goals, third in assists (466), and second in points (830) in franchise history. 

5. Miikka Kiprusoff

A cornerstone in goal, Kiprusoff was instrumental in the Flames’ run to the 2004 Stanley Cup Final. He won the Vezina Trophy as the NHL’s best goaltender in 2006. 

Kiprusoff sits atop the Flames all-time list in every major goaltending statistical category, including games played (576), wins (305), save percentage (.913), goals against average (2.46), and shutouts (41). “Kipper” is undoubtedly the greatest goaltender in Calgary Flames history. 

6. Joe Nieuwendyk 

A second-round selection of the Calgary Flames in the 1985 NHL Entry Draft, Joe Nieuwendyk quickly made his mark in the league. He tore up the NHL in the 1987-88 season, scoring 51 goals and winning the Calder Memorial Trophy. 

Nieuwendyk remains third in Flames’ history in goals (314), and fourth in points (616). 

7. Gary Roberts

Long before the arrival of Iginla, Gary Roberts was the team’s quintessential power forward. His grit and resilience inspired fans and teammates alike. 

Roberts ranks fourth in goals (257) in team history, and won the 1989 Stanley Cup in his time with the Flames. 

About the Author

Nick Holz

Read More @HolzSportsCo

Nick Holz is a content writer for BetMGM. Years of experience covering a wide range of sports from the gridiron glory of the NFL, to the Champions League final, and the trials and tribulations of Purdue basketball have given him a knack for unearthing insights that offer readers an edge in understanding the game. Nick has written for many online betting publications including Sports Betting Dime and OddsShark.

Nick Holz is a content writer for BetMGM. Years of experience covering a wide range of sports from the gridiron glory of the NFL, to the Champions League final, and the trials and tribulations of Purdue basketball have given him a knack for unearthing insights that offer readers an edge in understanding the game. Nick has written for many online betting publications including Sports Betting Dime and OddsShark.