Mikael Backlund will miss the begining of the 2011/2012 season with a broken pinky finger.

The Calgary Flames forward suffered the injury during Sunday's practice and will miss up to six weeks of action.

The Flames confirmed that the 22-year-old centre will have surgery to have a pin inserted into is left pinkie finger.

Backlund had one goal and three assists in five pre-season games. Last season, he collected 10 goals and 15 assists for 25 points in 73 games.