Blues Sign David Backes to Five-Year Extension

The St. Louis Blues announced today that they have signed center David Backes to a five-year extension. According to TSN's Bob McKenzie, the deal will average out to $4.5 million per season, making the entire contract worth $22.5 million. He would have been an unrestricted free agent next summer. In 14 games so far this season, Backes has two goals and four assists for six points and 32 penalty minutes. In 296 career NHL games, all with the Blues, he has 73 goals and 89 assists for 162 points and 439 penalty minutes. Not a bad signing for the Blues, as Backes plays with lots of grit and toughness, is a solid hitter, and can contribute offensively from time to time. However, $4.5 million per season seems a bit much for Backes. Perhaps a deal of around $3 million per season would have been more suitable for him, but if he can increase his offensive production considerably, $4.5 million may not be too bad.