Not sure if this has been said or not but I think this is a perfect opportunity for Iginla to have a chat with Backlund about his legacy here in Calgary. Backlund is at a crossroads and I can’t fault him for wanting a chance to win the cup. However, Jarome faced a similar situation when he decided to chase that elusive milestone and unfortunately didn’t pan out.
If this is indeed his dream than certainly the Flames should oblige and allow him to move on as he’s been a consummate pro for the organization and deserves that respect. One thing to note though is just how hard it is to win a Stanley Cup and there are no guarantees. When Iggy moved to Pittsburgh and played with Crosby everyone thought that was an automatic cup favorite and in the end they were ousted. I look at the Backlund situation and the market for contender teams looking to add isn’t great with cap room/flexibility being a primary concern. If Backlund was to move I’m not sure he’s moving into a situation where the team that acquires him are favorites (though he would probably have a better chance than staying with the Flames).
I think the option that could be more attractive is being named captain of the Flames and cementing his legacy as one of the greats to wear the Flaming C. He could potentially play his entire tenure with the Flames and continue to build his reputation both on and off the ice. If he fails to win a cup via trade then I think this could potentially be more alluring to a player of his caliber. Eventually when you retire you could have the distinction of being a captain for the only franchise you’ve ever played for. To me that there is a lot of merit in that and a guy like Jarome can attest to the struggles of chasing a cup and coming up short.
If Backlund truly wants a shot at the cup then fair enough he’s earned that right. But I would also be mindful that option B of staying in Calgary and being named Captain has advantages as well. Nobody knows what the Flames will be like next season but there is a chance with some bounce back years from key players that they could make the playoffs. Unless there is other issues, like locker room dynamics that are influencing his decision then I would think carefully about what to do.
Regardless, the guys who are in this holding pattern of wait and see need to show the organization a professional courtesy and make a decision so that both sides can do what’s best for the team/player moving forward.
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