Quote:
Originally Posted by GioforPM
Of course you are right. I just don't think Backlund would be too happy with 4th line minutes (nor should he be), and I'm not sure Jankowski is well-served playing wing. I suppose Backlund could play wing, but he never has to my recollection.
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The Flames have good role models up front in Stajan and Jones who demonstrate how to be professionals and play the role you're given without making a fuss. Backlund's also been a pro long enough that, if Jankowski is ready to play as an every day center in the NHL in 2 seasons, he could slide down to being a 3b (I would expect him to still get important ice time in the third periods of games and on the PK) and still go about his business.
After not having centers for so long, I am thrilled the Flames have actual depth at the position and I hope they do everything possible to keep that depth. It would be great in two seasons time (17-18 season) to have a 28 year old Backlund as an option to press the other three centers (Monahan 23, Jankowski 23, Bennett 21) to keep their play at a high level and earn their minutes night in and night out.