The Calgary Flames have brought back minor league forward Justin Kirkland for another year, re-signing the pending restricted free agent to a one-year, two-way contract. The deal will carry an NHL salary of $700K.
Kirkland, 24, was selected 62nd overall in 2014 but has yet to make it to the NHL. Four seasons in the minor leagues have resulted in consistent if underwhelming point totals, with the 6’3″ winger recording 28 in 53 games this season. While he doesn’t offer a ton of scoring upside, Kirkland still represents a depth option for the Flames that they could use in a bottom-six role if necessary.
Seven more restricted free agents remain unsigned for 2020-21, including Andrew Mangiapane who broke out as a full-time NHL player this season. Not everyone on that list is guaranteed a new deal, but Kirkland will be able to stay put and try to reach another level of play with the Stockton Heat.