As we inch closer to the conclusion of our series spotlighting the best Calgary Flames players by jersey number, the options become more limited with each number. The number 69 may be skipped, as no Calgary Flames player has ever donned that jersey number for the franchise. However, there are still plenty of notable names to discuss, including our next jersey number, 61.
Forward Duehr briefly wore the number 61 for just one game during his inaugural NHL appearance in the 2021-2022 season. He later switched to number 71, leaving much to be explored about his time with the Flames.
During his tenure with the Flames, Nazarov played two seasons, showcasing his skills in the 1999-2000 season where he appeared in 76 games, tallying 10 goals and 31 points. His time in Calgary was a highlight in his 12-year NHL career.
Honourable Mention goes to Daniil Miromanov, a defenseman acquired last season in the Noah Hanifin trade with Vegas. Miromanov signed a two-year contract with the Flames, providing the team with ample time to assess his potential. In his first 20 games with Calgary, Miromanov recorded seven points while averaging over 21 minutes of ice time per game.
Brett Kulak, a defenseman, wore the number 61 with the Flames. Ruzicka, on the other hand, was a fourth-round pick by the Flames in 2017. Despite his promising offensive skills, he struggled to establish himself in the NHL, dividing his time between the AHL and the Flames’ fourth line. Ruzicka accumulated 40 points in 114 NHL games with the Flames.
Honourable Mention also goes to Sam Bennett, a center known for his time with the Flames.
