In a surprising, yet somewhat expected, move the Boston Bruins have placed David Backes on waivers.
The Boston Bruins placed David Backes on waivers with the purpose of assigning him to the AHL. The six million dollar man missed 13 games in November due to a concussion and has dressed for just two of the last 13 games.
Why not waive him with the intention of buying him out? Well, buyouts can only happen in the offseason and we are a few months removed from that. With the trade deadline being right around the corner, this seemed like a logical option.
Players like Karson Kuhlman and Anders Bjork have earned their roster spot that often compromised a slot for Backes. It appeared that he slowed down whichever line he was on and when you’re fighting for secondary scoring, you cannot have that.
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It makes sense for him to do a conditioning stint but how much sense? The trade deadline is right around the corner and the Bruins are in need of a secondary scorer. It was a year ago today that Backes was healthy scratched for the first time in his career. January 17 isn’t a good day for the veteran.
Teammate Brad Marchand had this to say about the move.
"“Unfortunately that’s the business side of things that is really shitty. He’s been an incredible teammate, can’t say enough good things about him. … He’s going to be missed in this room.”"
Head coach Bruce Cassidy also spoke about the decision to put Backes on waivers.
"“I know David doesn’t agree with the situation, but that’s the decision we made [was] for the good of the team. I respect David as a person, as a player. We just felt we had better options, and that’s how we’re going to go forward and see how it plays out.”"
It’s predicted that the Bruins will add about $1 million in cap space once the forward clears. This gives them a little wiggle room for potential trades. This move came as a shock to Bruins fans across the internet. Some saw it as appropriate, while others saw it as a classless move by the organization.
can’t fault backes for anything. what’s he supposed to do, say no to $30M? love the shit out of that guy. just an amazing character
— Bradley (@BradIey98) January 17, 2020
David Backes reporting to the AHL pic.twitter.com/13gUeRx0ku
— I Rink You Should Leave (@nhlleave) January 17, 2020
Remember.
— Mike From Woburn (@MikeFromWoburn) January 17, 2020
Backes and Beleskey were signings that the front office made in an attempt to compete when the team was clearly in no position to do so.
And the mandate to make "Deep Playoff Runs" came directly from the owner on horseback.
Don't blame the player for the contract.
If Backes retires, the Boston Bruins are not on the hook for the remainder of his contract.