Former first round pick finally set to crack the Flames roster

Selected in the first round in 2012 (21^st overall) by the Calgary Flames, Mark Jankowski has finally proven that he’s ready to play in the NHL.

The jumbo-sized center, standing at 6’5”, has scored in each of his first three pre-season games and has proven to be a solid all-around player, after taking time in the college and AHL ranks to hone his craft.

Drafted as a tall and lanky forward, the centerman has filled out his frame, going from 170lbs in his draft year to 210lbs in this year’s camp. With impressive skating and puck handling ability, the two-way center is a complete package and is finally beginning to live up to his potential.

The Flames are already stacked at the center position, with Sean Monahan, Mikael Backlund, and Sam Bennett centering the top three lines. If Jankowski wins the fourth center role, Calgary will be set for many years.

Last season, Mark Jankowski led the Stockton Heat, Calgary’s affiliate, with 27 goals and 29 assists, good for 56 points.