What does the future hold for former Boston Bruin

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Austin Sabourin
May 30, 2023 (11:17)

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Milan Lucic, the forward for the Calgary Flames and Team Canada, can now proudly call himself a Gold Medalist. This past Sunday, Canada emerged victorious at the IIHF World Championships, prevailing over an incredibly motivated German team. With the coveted medal securely around his neck, Lucic is setting his sights on the future, eagerly anticipating what lies ahead.

Undoubtedly, it was a challenging season for the experienced Flames forward. Lucic, who is set to become a free agent this summer, faced a personal setback, tallying a career-low 19 points as his team narrowly missed out on a spot in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Nevertheless, retirement is not on the agenda for this determined athlete, as Lucic himself emphatically stated.

"I still have an insatiable desire to continue playing," Lucic expressed with conviction. "That's where my focus lies. My body is in good shape, and I still derive immense pleasure from the game. My intention is to carry on competing."

Lucic's decision to join Team Canada was driven by his personal initiative, reaching out to the national team's general manager, Doug Armstrong. "I simply wanted to contribute in any way I could to the collective effort," Lucic shared with the media. Enduring a demanding month-long journey, he found solace in the ultimate reward of a gold medal, validating his choice to represent his country.

Back in 2019, Lucic became part of the Flames family through a trade with the Edmonton Oilers. Prior to his stint in Edmonton, he spent a solitary season with the Los Angeles Kings. However, it was during his tenure with the Boston Bruins that Lucic achieved his greatest triumph, hoisting the Stanley Cup high in 2011.

As of now, Lucic's future with the Flames remains uncertain, shrouded in speculation. Nevertheless, there is one standout player in Calgary who fervently hopes to see this seasoned forward donning the red and orange jersey once more.

"When he's out on the ice, Lucic has an uncanny ability to create scoring opportunities, and his imposing presence in the corners keeps opponents on high alert,"

praised Flames defenseman MacKenzie Weegar.

"He's still got what it takes. Personally, I would be thrilled to see him return to Calgary because he brings an immense amount both on and off the ice."