Flames recall Kerby Rychel, activate Mikael Backlund off IR

NHL-Flames-Rychel-skates-against-Oilers

Calgary Flames' Kerby Rychel fights for the puck. (Jeff McIntosh/CP)

The Calgary Flames have made a few notable roster moves, recalling forward Kerby Rychel from the AHL’s Stockton Heat and activating forward Mikael Backlund off injured reserve.

Rychel, the 19th overall selection from the 2013 NHL draft, led Stockton in scoring with 21 points in 25 games. He’s appeared in 41 NHL games to date for both the Columbus Blue Jackets and Montreal Canadiens, tallying three goals and 11 assists.

The 29-year-old Backlund has appeared in 29 games this season, producing five goals and 12 assists over that span.

In a corresponding move, the Flames re-assigned goaltender Jon Gillies and forward Andrew Mangiapane to the AHL. David Rittich will serve as Calgary’s No. 1 netminder while Mike Smith recovers from injury.

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