Backlund was on the ice for 3 of the 4 gwg in that series. All 3 goals in the momentum turning game 2 loss.
He a very good player when engaged. He isn't always as enagaed as he could he or should be.
He is a smart player too, and uses those smarts to be in good positioning and also enough to not stand out as horrible in game situations when he is playing bad. But drive to the net if it means a collision? Take a hit to make a play or keep a play alive? Not often. Get into dirty area or stay in dirty areas to get a better chance or shot on net or keep a play alive? Nope, he'll defer to dump it in the corner or while in the zone, behind the net, and drop back into a defensive position at the expense of the better opportunity for his linemates. That's not what the Flames, who have needed a second scoring line, need as far as offensive zone from their second scoring line center...part of the reason Lindy was tried there last year.
He has terrible stretches in seasons, whether it being scoring droughts or lackadaisical play. He will bounce back, but it's certainly up and down. Part of that PP2 unit a few years back that didn't score until Christmas or so.
He's a solid third line center as his career moves on, with a not insignificant cap hit.
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