Article on Backlund

[dustygoon]

When ever I look at Backlund now, I hear Sutter's comment that Backlund would lead the WHL in scoring if he were over here. Yes it takes time to adjust and he was parachuted in mid season. Anyway, it sounds like he is adjusting well. I like the comments about his personality.

Duval said the Swedish import is entertaining, but is still learning the North American game.

"He's a pretty funny guy and he's just an amazing player," Duval said.

"Probably the style of play and the number of games that you play (is the biggest thing to get used to).

"Talking to him, he said he plays 42 games in a season. That's how much he's playing in the second half (in the WHL).

"It seems to be a little bit tough on him at times, but he's adjusting to it good."

http://slam.canoe.ca/Slam/Hockey/Jun...02281-sun.html

[Phanuthier]

I think people are taking Sutter's comments too literally, I think what Sutter meant to say is Backlund is one of the top <20 year old players in the world (obviously not in John Tavaras league, but still among the top 20 or so players in that 18-20 range) and based on the WJC play for last year and this year, I'd say thats probably true. Would it be nice for Backlund to get 2.5 PPG? Sure, but a PPG player is nothing to be dissapointed in IMO especially given that Backlund went through a huge huge step moving from Sweden to Canada, and playing <30 games.