By Last Word On Sports,Levi Pike

Copyright yardbarker

The Flames Captain Mikael Backlund Signs Extension

Backlund just past 1000 career games played with the Flames early last season. They are the only team he has ever known after being taking in the first round, way back in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft.

Throughout his NHL career, he has been very consistent. Only twice has he eclipsed the 50-point mark in a season, and yet has amassed 215 goals, 348 assists, totaling 563 points throughout his career thus far. Even last year, he skated 18:44 a night, so he is still impactful in the Flames lineup.

Backlund Is Very Important to Flames

The other way Backlund is important is through his veteran leadership and likewise qualities in the locker room. With the Flames going through basically a rebuild currently, his influence will be invaluable to the young players. Even if others possibly get moved out, it does seem like Backlund is a Flame lifer. He wants to help the team any he can, and this deal is proof of that fact. It is a strong move by general manager Craig Conroy and staff showing their team’s commitment to excellence.