During Backlund's development, he always left me wanting more. I was never sold on Backlund until the last year or two. I had hope for him though because there some x-factor in players' games that years of watching hockey lets you see. Backlund had that x-factor and I believed he would turn into a #1 or #2 C, which he did. Maybe it's pedigree or maybe it's just how they conduct themselves, I don't know.
Ferland has flashes but always seems to revert back to a peripheral player. I love his physicality and his shooting ability, but I don't see that x-factor that makes me believe he'll take the next step.
I think he'll be a great utility player, but will most likely play in the bottom half of the lineup more often than not. Guys with good shots and toughness are very valuable though.
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