Quote:
Originally Posted by Cali Panthers Fan
The Flames actually need to be better at defending since they're bottom 5 in goals against. The offense is doing ok ranked 11th, so losing Hudler might hurt, but I'm betting that some of our prospects are ready to step up and do more next year (might be Laine or Puljujarvi too).
Trading Backlund, who is probably our best defensive center, would likely do more harm than good at this point. We don't really have enough players who can handle the defensive zone at center yet, so until we do, Backlund is likely an indispensable commodity. He adds enough offense to be an adequate 2nd line center, better suited to 3rd line duties.
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Yeah I hear that. And I know that is the argument. The problem is if you compare this season to last, and I know you can't put it all on one player, you see what actually impacts success.
Last year, Hudler was on fire, rounding out a top line that was one of the most dangerous in the NHL. The Flames made the playoffs and won a round. Backlund, in contrast, was only ok last year. He was injured for much of the year, and he didn't make a big impact until near the end of the season.
This year, even though the offence has been productive, lead by Gaudreau and the back end, they can't pull away. They have not been able to win games. They are definitely lacking a killer instinct, or a dominating line that can be put out to pulverize the other team, like they had last year. Backlund, however, is having a great year playing with Bennett. He is forechecking well, he is defending well, he is creating some offence with Bennett. But he is not actually scoring. And so despite his good season, it isn't leading to team success.
The bigger factor in the defence this year from last, I believe, is goaltending. I think if you find a decent goaltender, the defence will take care of itself. Offence, however, will not necessarily take care of itself. I do not think Backlund will suddenly put up points. Bennett will hopefully become the centre on a productive second line, but you still need a top end winger to play on the top line to achieve that killer, deadly top line that was the bread and butter of Calgary's success last year. Without Hudler, you are basically hoping you can find someone to replace him.
I am not saying the team needs to get rid of Backlund. He is fine in his role. However, if the Flames need to make room on their salary structure, and simultaneously want to acquire more assets to use at the draft, then I think Backlund is less of a loss than Hudler is. Just my two cents.