Flames Acquire Blair Jones from Lightning for Brendan Mikkelson

The Calgary Flames announced today that they have acquired center Blair Jones from the Tampa Bay Lightning in exchange for defenseman Brendan Mikkelson. In 22 games this season with the Lightning, Jones has two goals and two assists for four points. He also appeared in five games with Norfolk of the AHL, scoring two goals and two assists for four points. In 33 games this season with Abbotsford of the AHL, Mikkelson has three goals and 12 assists for 15 points. He has not appeared in an NHL game so far this season. This is really just a depth move for both teams. Jones will give the Flames some depth on their checking lines, while Mikkelson gives the Lightning organization some depth on defense. More than likely, he will play on the third defensive pairing if he sees any NHL action this season.

Flames Claim Defenseman Mikkelson Off Waivers

The Calgary Flames announced today that they have claimed defenseman Brendan Mikkelson off waivers from the Anaheim Ducks. He was waived by the team on Monday after serving as a healthy scratch on Sunday's 3-2 win over Phoenix to make room for the debut of Andreas Lilja. Mikkelson has also had trouble securing a regular roster spot on the team over the past few seasons. In five games so far this season, he has one assist. Not a bad depth move for the Flames, as Mikkelson still has the potential to become a top-six defenseman at the NHL level. He has good size, some puck-moving skill, and a little offensive upside, and could become an effective defenseman for the Flames if he can improve his game a bit.

Ducks Sign Defenseman Mikkelson to One-Year Deal

The Anaheim Ducks have announced that they have re-signed defenseman Brendan Mikkelson to a one-year contract worth $687,500. In 28 games last season with the Ducks, he had two assists. He also appeared in 49 games with Toronto of the AHL, scoring seven goals and 15 assists for 22 points. Not a bad signing for the Ducks, as Mikkelson is a decent defensive prospect. He has a little offensive upside, moves the puck well, and has good size. There's a good chance he could earn a roster spot next season depending on how he does at training camp or any other off-season moves the Ducks make on defense.