This was the right move for several reasons. Backlund is not only better defensively, but seems to thrive offensively when facing tough competition (it's really weird). He's an ideal fit for the top shutdown line.
Monahan isn't getting many opportunities from in close which is where he scored most of his goals last year. Both Hudler and Gaudreau are capable of feeding their centreman clean passes in tight. Not only that, but they are both good at getting the puck on net and in dangerous spots.
Good things will happen.
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