Jarret Stoll actually had a lot more hits, I read the wrong column. 140+.
I'd be fine with three million though, it's not that bad of a number, that's right in Cogliano's spot. Backlund isn't physical but I wouldn't label him a soft player as some do. He was knocked off the puck more then ever this season and I can't remember that being the case in seasons previous. I'd chalk that up to coming off that abdominal injury mid season. That's not good either, his injuries are a concern as well.
What Backlnud is however is probably one of our better defensive forwards. Good positionally and good with his stick his takeaway stats are outstanding. Good enhanced possession numbers and that jazz. Don't think anyone else on our team is as good in that role as Backlund is, certainly not Josh Jooris.
Depth always seems great in the off season but we're not in a position yet to be sending out good NHL forwards. Grandlund, Jooris etc need to establish themselves much more first.
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