Mikael Backlund for Captain support thread

[TrentCrimmIndependent]

I wasn't sure at the start of the season but his elevation in play in spite of being bumped down by Kadri joining the team has demonstrated the strength of Mikael's character and the consummate pro he has been for this organization as its longest serving member

since I wouldn't want to put any more on Tanev's plate other than being a stud shut down d-man I think it puts Backlund as the clear favorite for this honor

who's with me?

poll welcomed

[Strange Brew]

Where was this thread before tonight?

[Yeah_Baby]

They should go old school and have him and Tanev be co captains

[SportsJunky]

I agree with djsflames. Backlund would make a great captain.

[jg13]

I support this thread.

[soulchoice]

The way Backlund elevates young wingers is nothing short of amazing. Coaches, players and parents see this. Just an amazing two way hockey player. I am proud to have him on this team.

[Dx54]

With 1 left on his contract after this year, I don't see it happening (yet).

[TrentCrimmIndependent]

Originally Posted by Dx54

With 1 left on his contract after this year, I don't see it happening (yet).

why not

he's practically a shoo in to be a career Flame .. give him the letter and extend him next summer

it will be even easier to get it done if he's made captain

[dissentowner]

Hell no.

[Sofa GM]

Mikael Backlund would be a great pick for captain. This is one of the best two-way centre's in the league.

[sharkov]

Agreed. He was the best player in the playoffs

[agulati]

Yes, but doubt it happens this year.

[wired]

Backlund is the definition of a team player. I think if they made him the captain, he would find another level of play. And boost his line mates as well.

[The Fisher Account]

If the organization wanted him to be captain, they would have named him captain after Gio left. This will never happen.

[flambers]

I don't think he will be the Captain, he has two years remaining on his contract.

Its hard to tell if he will return

I would guess the eventual captain is Huberdeau

[gvitaly]

I'm of the opinion that it's too late to make Backlund the captain. He is the 3rd line center, and he should be dominating in that role. I'm not sure what the QoC metrics for Backlund this year, but it seemed as though he is playing less against the top lines now. I still think that Backlund is a very hot and cold player, especially offensively, and I don't want that to be the identity of our team.

[Red_Baron]

I don't know why they haven't named a captain yet.


Just put the C on someone and see what they do with it. If it doesn't work out, change it. No need to overthink it.

[Coach]

I think Sutter played himself a bit with the captaincy thing. The first season was understandable. But by trying to down play the significance of having a C or a not, sort of made it inevitably a bigger deal than it needs to be when they do name one. He’s put more importance on it than necessary. Should have just given it to Backlund off the bat. Who cares if he only has it for 2 seasons? He’s still one the teams best players and I see him sticking long term regardless.

[1qqaaz]

But is Backlund any good in the community?

Oh yeah, he seemingly does as much charity work as the rest of the team combined.

[Cycling76er]

It was mentioned in a Sutter interview earlier in the year that he needs one of the younger guys to step into the role. He doesn't want it going to an older player. He answered the question twice I believe.