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slcrocket · 07-03-2019, 11:39 AM

I have seen Backlund's name popping up occasionally in all the trade/FA threads, and the prevailing sentiment (at least in those threads) is that Backlund is really closer to a third line center than a second line center. I was surprised the first time I read it, but the more I think about it I realize I am not sure exactly what I think Backlund is.

It seemed like two years ago several people were talking about him being a sneaky Selke candidate, and indeed he cashed in with a new deal shortly thereafter. But if Frolik is indeed on the way out (and I can't envision a scenario where we keep him with our needs for cap relief/his salary/his role), that #2 line is going to be broken up. I think it's increasingly important that we understand who exactly Backlund is and where he fits here.

The guy was 21G, 26 A and a +34 last year. I get that you'd like to see more offensive numbers from your #2 C, but with his ability to play shutdown defensive minutes and that +/-, I tend to feel like he's closer to a 2C than a 3C. Certainly upgradeable, but not a bad 2C.

The other issue is that he makes 5.3M, and will for a while. That's a lot of cash for a 3C. So who is Mikael Backlund??

07-03-2019, 11:39 AM	#1
slcrocket Backup Goalie Join Date: Jun 2005 Location: Lakebay, WA Exp:	Who is Backlund? I have seen Backlund's name popping up occasionally in all the trade/FA threads, and the prevailing sentiment (at least in those threads) is that Backlund is really closer to a third line center than a second line center. I was surprised the first time I read it, but the more I think about it I realize I am not sure exactly what I think Backlund is. It seemed like two years ago several people were talking about him being a sneaky Selke candidate, and indeed he cashed in with a new deal shortly thereafter. But if Frolik is indeed on the way out (and I can't envision a scenario where we keep him with our needs for cap relief/his salary/his role), that #2 line is going to be broken up. I think it's increasingly important that we understand who exactly Backlund is and where he fits here. The guy was 21G, 26 A and a +34 last year. I get that you'd like to see more offensive numbers from your #2 C, but with his ability to play shutdown defensive minutes and that +/-, I tend to feel like he's closer to a 2C than a 3C. Certainly upgradeable, but not a bad 2C. The other issue is that he makes 5.3M, and will for a while. That's a lot of cash for a 3C. So who is Mikael Backlund??