Quote:
Originally Posted by Snuffleupagus
I agree, to a lessor extent they did that with Stajan, now at 33 people want him waived.
Backlund peaked at 27-28 and paying him more than $5 X 4 will be a mistake
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Stajan has never been anything more than a complimentary/utility player. He put up decent numbers on some really bad Toronto teams, but there is really no comparison to be had there. Losing a step combined with getting a lot less ice time has really made Stajan fall off a cliff production wise, even if he still puts in a honest shift when called upon.
Players who Backlund is somewhat resembling in tools and style, 2-way players who drive play are usually effective well into their mid 30s (look at Bergeron and Kesler for example), so without hesitation I would bet on Backlund being an effective player for at least the next five or six years. Also, what makes you say he's reached his peak? He's on pace to at least match last years totals. With a good run the rest of the way it's not out of the question that Backlund might reach 60 points this season.