NHL Free Agents: David Backes – Rumors, Best Fits

NHL Free Agents David Backes: Latest Rumors, FA Profile, 5 Best Fits

There is still a decent chance the St.Louis Blues decide to re-sign their captain of the last five seasons. It was only a summer ago when fans were ready to trade the likes of David Backes and Patrik Berglund, but it seems attitudes have shifted after the 2015-16 season.

Although the Blues fell short of expectations, captain David Backes proved his worth during the Stanley Cup Playoffs.

Here’s a guy who plays with a physical nasty edge, loves to throw the body, and can add to the scoresheet. This rare combination rarely becomes available, yet two of the NHL’s best power forwards (Backes and Lucic) have an opportunity to hit the market on July 1.

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David Backes was selected 62nd overall (2nd round) back in 2003 when he played for USHL Lincoln. He spent the next three years playing NCAA hockey for the University of Minnesota-Mankato before joining the Blues in 2006-07.

Three years later, Backes dawned the “A” on his jersey, which he wore for the next two seasons before he was handed the captaincy in 2011-12.

The 32-year-old just completed his 10th NHL season, and has 206 goals, 254 assists (460 points) in 727 regular season games. He also has 12 goals, 15 assists (27 assists) in 49 playoff contests.

Since 2006-07, only three players have at least 2000 hits, and 200 goals.

The obvious, Alex Ovechkin, who has 473 goals – 2096 hits – and 311 blocked shots in 758 games. Next is Dustin Brown with 203 goals – 2612 hits – and 226 blocked shots in 774 games. Lastly, we have David Backes who has 206 goals – 2138 hits – and 492 blocked shots.

It will be difficult for St.Louis to allow those type of numbers to walk into free agency.

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David Backes’ Resume:

– Numerous Academic/All-Star Team Awards during his NCAA career.
– Three World Hockey Championships (’07, ’08, ’09)
– Two Olympic Appearances (’10 and ’14)
– Named to Team USA at the World Cup of Hockey in September
– NHL All-Star Game appearance in ’10-’11

NHL Free Agents: David Backes Rumors/Speculation

via Sportsnet,

When the Blues decided to re-up with coach Ken Hitchcock, roster change was in the air. T.J. Oshie was dealt to Washington, but in late February GM Doug Armstrong went so far as to say that trading Backes would be an injustice to his teammates. The Blues, however, are Vladimir Tarasenko‘s team now. 

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After losing in the Western Conference final, Backes said there is “no question” he’d like to return to the Blues. Armstrong said on May 31 his No. 1 priority is re-signing RFA Jaden Schwartz. As for Backes? “I’d love to keep him here, but it has to work out for David and his family and work out in our math equation.”

Unless Doug Armstrong can find a way to rid himself of Jori Lehtera‘s new contract, it may be difficult to keep their longtime captain. Among potential NHL free agents, David Backes would easily rank in the top five even at 32-years-old. There’s more than a few good years left in the tank.

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Potential Contract for David Backes

If both David Backes and Milan Lucic reach free agency, the market may be dictated by whichever signs first. Both are somewhat comparable in terms of what they’re worth per year, although Lucic makes for a more comfortable long-term signing.

Purely speculation, David Backes could receive anywhere between $5.25 million to $7 million dollars/year. Given his age, expect a three-to-five year deal on the open market.

Next: Steven Stamkos Free Agency Outlook

5 Best Fits

Anaheim Ducks, Boston Bruins, Colorado Avalanche, Minnesota Wild, Philadelphia Flyers