I agree that:
(a) calling anyone a nominee for a prize is inaccurate, since even the "finalists" aren't in any kind of run off, they are just the top vote getters;
(b) Backlund needs to be better at faceoffs and it would make his excellent defensive game even better;
(c) he may drop in play level before the end of this contract (though I don't think he plays a particularly punishing style on himself). Backlund is 28 (almost 29) and seems to keep himself in very good shape. Other top defensive centres have aged well. Bergeron is at the top of his game at 32. Kessler is still good at what he does at 33 (and he plays a more physical style). Hosea was effective at an old age. Will Backlund be the same? Who knows. But it's an OK risk IMO.
I think, however, the market is relevant on a resigning. I also think that you average out what he could get now and the potential drop in play, to get to an overall fair compensation.
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