Former NHLer Clint Malarchuk reveals extreme measures former Flames teammate took to avoid bumping into Stanley Cup-winning head coach

Former NHLer and Flames goaltender coach, Clint Malarchuk, shared his thoughts on Miikka Kiprusoff and Bob Hartley during his appearance on episode 514 of the Spittin' Chiclets podcast. He talked about the difference of opinion between Miikka Kiprusoff and coach Bob Hartley.

Malarchuk also recalled a funny incident when Kiprusoff pretended not to speak English in order to avoid conversation with the coach. He said:

"He told me that Miikka pretended he couldn’t speak English for two years because he didn’t want to talk to the coach."

Malarchuk claimed to be a "firefighter" when discussing his role between the coach and the goaltender as he was "putting out fires."

"Miikka is a great guy, but very quiet," Malarchuk said. "You’ve got to earn his trust. Once he trusts you, he opens up. Johan Hedberg, I think, was his goalie partner in Kentucky when San Jose had their farm team there."

Malarchuk's take on Miikka Kiprusoff revealed a side of the former NHL goaltender that not many people were aware of.

Malarchuk played for the Quebec Nordiques, Buffalo Sabres and Washington Capitals, and was the goaltender coach for the Flames from 2011 to 2014.

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Calgary Flames retiring the No. 34 jersey in honour of Miikka Kiprusoff

The Calgary Flames hosted a ceremony in March 2024 to honor Miikka Kiprusoff and retired the goaltender's jersey No. 34. Kiprusoff was among the top goaltenders of his generation and was honored for his contributions to the Calgary Flames.

The ceremony was a very emotional affair for many. Several Calgary legends were present to celebrate Kipper and his career, including former teammate and current GM Craig Conroy, former head coach Darryl Sutter, and Flames' very own Jarome Iginla whose No. 12 jersey was retired five years ago.

Former NHLer Jamie McLennan gave a speech, sharing stories about Miikka Kiprusoff and created a light-hearted environment for the crowds.

Miikka shared his thoughts regarding the same, stating:

“It means a lot,” Kiprusoff said (via New York Times). “For me, it’s the biggest honour you can get as a player. I’m so thankful for that.”

The Finnish goaltender had a successful NHL career, winning the Vezina Trophy in 2006 and earning a place on the All Star Team that year as well. He had a GAA of 2.49 and a save percentage of 91.2% in 623 games throughout his NHL career.