Flames ink captain Giordano to 6-year, $40.5M extension

According to multiple reports, Giordano’s contract comes with an annual average of $6.75 million, good for a total value of $40.5 million.

The investment in defense could go a long way as the Flames look to build off of their surprise playoff season past year . Prior to the injury, Giordano set career highs in assists (37) and points (48) in 2014-15 despite playing in just 61 games, leading to speculation that this deal would net him closer to $9 million per year. Although he wasn’t on the ice for Calgary’s post-season run, he was very involved with the group. “The youth plays a role, the coach plays a role, there’s no doubt about it. But, the man who blends it all together – and it’s been quite obvious since he’s taken over as captain – has been Mark Giordano”.

The left-handed Giordano has been a key piece of the Flames return to prominence in recent seasons, aiding youngsters like Johnny Gaudreau in their development and providing a strong veteran presence in the locker room. “He is the identity of this team”.

The Toronto native has 66 goals and 179 in 510 career games, all with Calgary. Before the injury, he was a front-runner for the Norris Trophy and finished sixth in the voting despite his abbreviated season.