Quote:
Originally Posted by Locke
I wholeheartedly agree. But now the question becomes:
If we believe he has the ability, what is it that is preventing him from manifesting that ability? What obstacle has presented itself? Is it his own internal expectations or limitations? Are there external restrictions being imposed upon him by management/coaching staff/circumstance?
What is it that is preventing Backlund from becoming the player that he is/was expected to be and that fans/management/staff believe him to be?
Seriously, I like Backlund, I thought he was a great pick with considerable talent. That said, I have not been proven correct yet.
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I think Backlund's biggest problem up until this season was confidence.
A stint overseas, and a different coach now in CGY has helped him overcome the confidence problem IMO, but now he can't shake the injury bug. I was pleased when he came back after that first injury and picked up exactly where he left off, unlike last season where he had a solid pre-season, got hurt and when he came back nearly got sent down to the farm, he was so bad and lacking confidence. Was a good sign IMO.
I really think he's going to put it all together in the coming seasons, I just hope it's with the Flames.