Boston Bruins: David Backes Will Be Integral This Season
Boston Bruins: David Backes Will be Integral This Season After Signing in the Offseason
When the Boston Bruins signed David Backes this offseason, there were mixed reactions. Though he’s the ideal fit for the Bruins, his contract — specifically the term — was cause for concern. While it seems most people think the signing of Backes was a good one, he may have quieted down some of the nay-sayers after his first preseason game with the team.
Do you like the Davis Backes contract with the Boston Bruins?
— Brandon Share-Cohen (@BShareCohen) July 1, 2016
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In the preseason, everything must be taken with a grain of salt. As some might remember, Matt Irwin scored two power play goals in his preseason debut with Boston last year. Irwin also lasted only two games in Boston before being sent down to Providence. With that being said, Irwin was never much of an impact player before signing in Boston. David Backes, however, was a top-tier player renowned for his leadership, defensive ability, and grit.
For that reason, Backes’ preseason debut alongside David Pastrnak and Danton Heinen was impressive. Backes is a bonified NHL player, and despite playing on a team other than St. Louis for the first time in his career, he showed no signs of slowing down. Though he didn’t score, he did manage to assist on all three Bruins’ goals.
“They found each other, they made some nice plays. It’s impressive that they seemed to have that chemistry right off the bat,” head coach Claude Julien said.
"“A lot of fun playing with those guys, they’re such good players. I try to let them do their thing and work hard. It’s not that tough to play with those guys. “Backes talks so much out there, tells you where to be, kind of what he was thinking. And Pasta is just so skilled. Two great players.”– Danton Heinen"
Backes has recorded at least 20 goals in each of his last five full season and has reached the 30 goal mark twice in his career. Though he may contribute in different ways for the Bruins, his goal scoring ability is certainly up to par. Backes clearly had the trust of Julien early Saturday as he led all Bruins’ forwards in ice time with 20:14. Though Backes had a great game, he was quick to compliment his linemates.
"“The Heinen kid scores a game-tying goal (in the shootout) that’s a clutch goal. He’s counted on in those situations. It’s tough at a young age to come through, but he has ice water in his veins and you love seeing that from your teammates.”– David Backes"
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The preseason may not mean much, but it’s still a good basis for talent evaluation. As it stands, Backes looks like he should be a solid contributor for the team. As a veteran in the locker room, and on the ice, Backes should be an invaluable player for the team for years to come.