Quote:
Originally Posted by Erick Estrada
I really like how Yzerman seems to have no emotional attachment to players and seems willing to make moves which in his mind are for the best for the organization even if they may be unpopular with fans. The worst thing a GM can do is become emotionally attached to players and this has always been a big problem with NHL GM's and organizations. You have to be able to separate what's best for the organization from any emotional attachments.
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But in the context of this discussion doing things "the Yzerman way" does not necessarily mean drawing a line in the sand for a new contract. As I mentioned earlier Steven Stamkos played in the Eastern Conference Finals as a pending UFA, and then came to terms with the Lightning on an extension just days before 1 July. My point being that even if Backlund is not signed by the TD, the most prudent move is not necessarily to trade him away. Yzerman could have commanded a very nice return for Stamkos, and yet opted to wait things out, likely because he recognized how much more important Stamkos was to TB's present playoff push.
As with Stamkos, I don't expect Backlund will be traded under any circumstances this year. Whether he re-signs in the season or after the playoffs I don't believe that Backlund will be playing anywhere but in Calgary for the next several years.