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Calgary Flames News

Ryan Strome will make his NHL debut tonight.

Strome was recalled earlier in the week but has not got into the lineup. He was the fifth overall pick in 2011 and has tore up the AHL this season. Strome scored 174 points in 111 games in his final two seasons in the OHL and had nine goals and 33 points in 23 games with Bridgeport this season. The Islanders offence is in need of a jump-start, so they are hoping Strome can bring the spark that they need. It appears he will start tonight's game centring the third line with Brock Nelson and Cal Clutterbuck on his wings.

Ryan Strome
The Islanders have recalled Ryan Strome but he will not be in the lineup tonight.

There was some weather trouble for Strome's flight so he will now just meet the Isles in Phoenix tomorrow because the team did not want him to fly all-day today and then play tonight. He has been recalled because he has been torching the AHL and the Islanders have some serious issues when it comes to generating offence. Strome is expected to make his NHL debut on Thursday after posting nine goals and 24 assists in the first 23 games of the AHL season. The Islanders are not recalling Sidney Crosby, but Strome has some serious offensive talent and is worth a look in all leagues, but most of his value lies in keeper leagues at this point.

Ryan Strome
Olli Maatta will remain with Penguins.

After his ninth game the Penguins had to decide whether or not to keep Maatta and burn the first year of his entry-level contract or send him back to juniors. "Based on his play, we believe this is the best decision for Olli and the Penguins." Penguins GM Ray Shero said. Maata has one goal and two assists while averaging 15:03 TOI in nine games.

Olli Maatta
The New York Islanders have sent Ryan Strome to Bridgeport (AHL).

The Islanders are trying to give the 2011, fifth overall pick more time to develop. He is a good playmaking centre with great hands, but has not completely adapted to the NHL game, but he is close. Strome will certainly be the first forward called up from Bridgeport.

Ryan Strome
#Flames centre Mikael Backlund, who has been placed on injured reserve with an MCL sprain. He's out 4 to 6 weeks.

Backlund had 3 G and 1 A to go with a -1 in 8 games this season. He will likely miss the rest of the fantasy year so if you have him he is not worth keeping. Ben Street has been recalled from the AHL to replace Backlund.

Mikael Backlund
Sounds like CGY C Mikael Backlund (upper body injury suffered Sat vs. VAN) will be out at least a month, but should get official word today.

Backlund was recently skating on the second line due to the Blair Jones injury. The Flames are now down two of their top four centermen. The sophmore scored four goals and 11 points in 41 games.

Mikael Backlund