Where does Backlund fit in your future plans?

[Enoch Root]

I have been thrilled with the play of Jooris so far this season - as so many have said: found money.

However, on no planet anywhere in the galaxy, is Jooris a better player than Backlund. Not even close. Could he be one day? Sure, it's possible, But let's not forget that he is only one year younger than Backlund, it's not like he has years of development time in his back pocket to catch up.

Stajan: has done everything asked of him and has solidified the fourth line. But again, simply not the player Backlund is.

Granlund: could he pass Backlund one day? Sure, that's entirely possible. And if he does, awesome! The Flames will have an abundance of solid NHL centres from which to trade for more assets.

Points are:
1) Backlund is a really good 2C/3C and is only 25
2) Even if others eventually pass him, he would still be a solid NHLer in his 20s, not a burden of a contract.

Absolutely no reason whatsoever to hesitate in signing him to a 4 or 5 year deal.

[Fire]

Originally Posted by Where ru Chris O'Sullivan

I like the thought of potential 20 goal scorer Jooris being on the 4th line. This would mean we are over talented, but I'm not sure this is the case. If Jooris continues to produce as he has this year, can't see how he moves to the 4th line, not sure how you get rid of Stajan either.

Also, if were not allowed to KHL Backlund after 3 horrific seasons of supposed learning curves / injuries etc. Not sure we can expect or demand Granlund to be great by next year. But that doesn't mean he shouldn't have more time to develop.

Don't overrate Jooris because of a good start to this season. He's not a 20 goal scorer and I doubt he will ever reach that mark in the NHL. Backlund is a far superior player to Jooris. Granlund might get to the level of Backlund eventually but that won't happen for a couple more years. Granlund can also move to the wing.

Backlund is currently one of the top 2 centers on the team and will slot in nicely as the #2 or #3 guy when Bennett and Monahan improves. A 5 year deal worth between $4 and $5 million will be very reasonable for a guy reaching his UFA years.

[LouCypher]

Great teams usually have a few guys who hold things together like glue, perform when the pressure is on and do what needs to be done to compete and get the win. Backlund IMHO is a key player in all these areas and we are fortunate to have a center like him in our lineup. I think having him on anywhere from lines 1-3 he easily steps into that role and compliments what we have in the system and our lineup with Monahan here now and Bennet coming in the future. What really sets Backlund apart is his dedication to being the best player he can be.

[BACKCHECK!!!]

Backlund will be our Sammy Pahlsson.

Except with significantly more offence.

Eff yeah.