Backes at center of depth chart

Yes, David Backes has the ability and grit to play on one of the team’s top two lines. He played the right side last season, which was his first in Boston.

In order for a coach to roll four lines consistently, depth down the middle is important. If the Bruins come out of training camp with David Krejci, Patrice Bergeron, Backes and Riley Nash as the centermen, that’s solid depth to begin the 2017-18 season.

When Backes signed as a free agent, he said he would play any position to help the team win, even though he’s more comfortable as a center.

Now, with a few younger players in the organization ready to make the jump to the NHL, it gives Bruce Cassidy more options. As we talked about the last couple of days, I see David Pastrnak playing on Krejci’s wing, and possibly Anders Bjork or Danton Heinen playing with Bergeron and Brad Marchand.

That means Matt Beleskey and Backes could stake claim to the third unit. The arrival, and possible addition of Jakob Forsbacka Karlsson on the right side could produce a solid line.

Beleskey struggled last season and registered only eight points in 49 games. He should feel the pressure to produce, especially with prospect Jake DeBrusk ready for primetime.

I’m pumped to watch JFK’s transition to pro hockey. He’ll deal with the typical ebbs and flows but he has the ability to make an immediate impact.

What about Ryan Spooner?

It’s difficult to predict his contributions. His one-year deal worth $2.8 million is a strong indication the Bruins are ready to move on. Spooner is good on the power play but his even-strength play hasn’t blossomed into what the organization thought it would.

For those pointing the finger at former coach Claude Julien, Spooner played less under Cassidy.

Depth is the reason teams win and enjoy deep runs in the Stanley Cup playoffs. The Bruins won in ’11 because of the third- and fourth-line contributions. On paper, at least, the 2017-18 Bruins could have similar depth.