One of the most beloved members of the Calgary Flames is getting a chance to get his swagger back in the American Hockey League. On Wednesday, the Flames placed Justin Kirkland on waivers. On Thursday, he cleared waivers and was assigned by the club to the AHL’s Calgary Wranglers.

The 29-year-old Kirkland is a left shot forward that can play centre or the wing. Originally a third-round selection by Nashville back in 2014, he failed to cement himself in the Predators’ plans during his entry-level contract and became a free agent. He spent three seasons with the Flames organization, all with the AHL’s Stockton Heat, but impressed enough to land a contract with the Anaheim Ducks.

Kirkland made his NHL debut in 2022-23 with Anaheim, but suffered serious injuries in a car accident – thankfully avoiding life-threatening injuries in a scary crash – and had to work his way back to playing hockey. He played a couple games with Arizona in 2023-24 and suited up for 21 with the Flames last season, developing a niche as a fourth-line centre and shootout specialist, before suffering a season-ending knee injury. He signed a one year deal with the Flames during this past off-season.

This season, Kirkland was fine. His game arguably lacked pace, which is not unexpected considering he’s coming off major knee surgery. He played nine games and posted a single assist this season, playing almost exclusively on the fourth line between Ryan Lomberg and Adam Klapka. Kirkland wasn’t out-and-out bad by any stretch, but he’s also one of the easiest players to send down to open up a spot for a younger player. And considering how much time Kirkland missed last season, he needs to play to get his game to where he – and the Flames – believe it can be.

If nothing else, Kirkland adds a really savvy veteran to the Wranglers’ forward group, functionally swapping himself into the top six forward role vacated by Rory Kerins.

The Flames are now down to 22 players on their active roster. They return to action on Thursday evening when they face the San Jose Sharks.

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