Quote:
Originally Posted by kehatch
From a pure hockey standpoint this extension is unnecessary. It locks up two C spots with older players, it removes the option for a deadline trade if the season doesn't go well, and committs us to a 36 year old for 3 more seasons when he had a big drop off last season. It is also another extension that was signed a year earlier then it needed to be, and before a season that will probably answer a lot of questions about both Backlund and the Flames.
That said, he is the captain and a rare guy that can retire having played for one team. The dollar figure and term are manageable. I am okay with it as long as it doesn't block younger options at C. Because I am not a fan of any of Kadri, Backlund, or Frost as long tern C options. Though hopefully Frost can step it up this season.
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It was done now to squash any trade talk/rumours. They would be an unwanted and unnecessary distraction for this young team who needs leadership as they enter the league for their first/second/third seasons. From a pure hockey perspective, I think this was important to get done.
A trade was never happening, and both parties are happy together, so they locked it down.