Quote:
Originally Posted by dammage79
I wonder now if the Flames feel Backlunds next contract will not fit in the Flames plans moving forward.
Tkachuk is gonna have to get paid pretty quick here. If Jankowski has a great rookie season leading into the deadline he's gonna get a good chunk of cap space too.
I feel Backlund should be a flame for life but maybe the salary cap isn't going to allow it.
That's going to be Trelivings biggest obstacle at deadline day and into the off-season.
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I suppose there's a realization that Backlund is in that 6x6 realm of next contract. The question had to be whether there are other centers out there who come with a similar sized contract that may be even better than backlund. One could argue Turris might be as good, or better.
There is no other clear cut #2 Center in the organization as early as next season. Bennett's likely a winger going forward, and let's see where Jankowski's progression takes him, but penciling him in as the #2 C on a playoff contending team is a risky proposition.
My take is that the flames will be investing $5-6M bucks on the #2 center. It's likely to be backlund, but it's their job to be keeping their eyes open on alternatives should quality ones present themselves.