Quote:
Originally Posted by Goriders
I’d keep Huberdeau out of the limelight on the 3rd line with Backlund. I get the feeling he’s not cut out for being “the guy”. He seems to put too much pressure on himself.
Long term though something has to give. If he can’t get back to being at least a point per game player I’m guessing you probably don’t want to be paying him $10.5 million for seven more years.
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I don't think it's the outside pressure that's getting to Huberdeau per se, although it probably compounds things. But rather, I think it's actually the on ice pressure that's causing most of his problems.
Backlund will help to alleviate those issues for him because of the pace he can play at and how strong he is at winning puck battles, winning 50s-50s, keeping plays alive and cycling. I said it a few weeks ago that Huberdeau is underrated on the cycle and I think he showed how competent he can be in that department yesterday night. If he can continue to work hard, keep up, I think he has a chance to change his season around.
I don't know how things will change though if Backlund requests a trade to a contender. If I'm a GM of a contender, Backlund is the first guy I'm asking for. Proven 2 way playoff performer who elevates his linemates and plays the game the right way. Dude would help any time win the Stanley Cup right now.