He's probably had them before, but I think it's time we re-establish some love for this man.
After a rocky start to his career (one that was not unlike our floundering youngster, Bennett) Backlund made an about-face in his mid-twenties to grow into one of the game's premier two-way forwards, leader of the Swedish international team, and quietly climbed the Flames all-time ranks, currently sitting at
8th in GP,
16th in PTS, and tied for
3rd for most full seasons at 13. You can imagine the names in his company on mostly made up of those we revere here. It's easy to forget we are watching one of the best ever Flames in his prime.
Just want to say I'm thankful for his passion for this city and this team, his hatred of our rivals, and for his perseverance that has lead to him being one of the team's most important core pieces. As a defenseman at heart, I've always had a big appreciation for forwards like him. Hope he's in the C forever.
Maybe one day his moustache will fill out.
[INSERT "BACKLUND V CANUCKS GLASS SLAM" GIF HERE]