Newz Forum: HOCKEY: Flames sign forward Marcus Nilson

Calgary, AB (Sports Network) - The Calgary Flames signed forward Marcus Nilson to a contract on Tuesday. As per team policy, terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Nilson, who played in 83 regular season games with Florida and Calgary during the 2003-04 season, tallied 11 goals with 13 assists. The Flames acquired Nilson on March 8 from the Panthers and the forward flourished in the postseason for Calgary.

He finished fourth on the Flames in playoff scoring, netting four goals with seven assists, including the overtime winner in Game 1 of the Western Conference semifinals against Detroit.

"Marcus is an excellent two-way player with great versatility being able to play more than one forward position," said head coach Darryl Sutter. "He was a very important part of our playoff run last season and with his age and ability he fits into what we are building here in Calgary. His leadership and style of play fit well in the identity we are creating."

Nilson appeared in all 26 postseason contests for the upstart Flames, who lost to the Tampa Bay Lightning in seven games in the Stanley Cup Finals.

In 341 career NHL games, Nilson has posted 131 points (53 goals, 78 assists) with 207 penalty minutes.

Even though they've lost Conroy, if they can keep the rest of the team together Calgary will be a force for years to come. Provided there is hockey next year.