FanIn80, I'm not quoting your whole post but I do believe it is very well reasoned and sensible. My only comments in reply would be a couple of questions:
1) I'm not sure I'm on board with the notion that Jankowski needs #2 ice *now* to avoid stunting his development, or even next season. He did his full term at college, did a full season plus a bit in the minors, and now is on the team in a 3rd line role. Slow and steady development has worked for him over his entire adult career. I don't see the need to step on the gas right now.
2) If, some time over the course of Backlund's extension, Jankowski beats out Backlund for the #2 spot, I have no doubt that the coaches will not hesitate to utilize Jankowski as such. Jankowski hasn't been buried behind the more experience, more expensive Matt Stajan, for example. Even if Jankowski makes less than Backlund for some time, if he earns the #2 spot I imagine that's where he'll play.
There's lots of good points on both sides for how to approach Backlund's extension or possible trade. But I don't think it's impact on Jankowski in the immediate and long term future should hold very much weight, if any.
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