Boston Bruins Top Five Forwards Midpoint 2016-17
David Backes – 39 Games – 11 Goals, 10 Assists, 21 Points – ATOI: 17:30
One of the biggest free agent additions in recent memory, Backes comes in at No. 5. When looking at what Backes brought to the St. Louis Blues for so many years, there was a lot to like. Many teams – including the Bruins who likely top the list, covet physical, accountable players who can lead a team both on and off the ice. In Backes, the Bruins got just that.
Has David Backes lived up to your own personal expectations so far this season with the Boston Bruins? Reply with why! #NHLBruins #Poll
— Brandon Share-Cohen (@BShareCohen) January 13, 2017
Backes fits the Bruins’ mold to a T. His first season in Boston has been exactly as many hoped it would be, though the concern was never necessarily rooted in his first season with the team. Given his age and the direction the NHL is headed, many have reservations about Backes simply based on the length of the deal itself – still, that doesn’t mean there should be reservations about Backes’ current season.
This year, Backes has scored 11 goals and 21 points in 39 games. He’s been accountable both on and off the ice and has provided some veteran leadership and hard-nosed style that the Bruins love. Regardless of how his next few seasons play out, the former Blues’ captain has been one of the bright spots of an otherwise mediocre Bruins’ season so far this year.