David Backes adds more than on-ice production

WASHINGTON – David Backes is worth every penny of his five-year deal worth $30 million with the Boston Bruins. Some would disagree with that notion, but the veteran forward’s contributions are countless.

On the ice, he has seven goals and five assists for 12 points in his last 12 games. It’s also no coincidence that since he’s been back around the team and in the lineup following colon surgery, the Bruins are a much more focused team.

Backes was one of the bright spots with two goals during Thursday’s 4-3 shootout loss to the Washington Capitals at Capital One Arena. His presence off the ice has been significant, especially with so many young players on the team this season. He’s been the perfect conduit for coach Bruce Cassidy.



Backes is as honest and genuine as they come. He’s an extension of the coaching staff and it trusts Backes’ input. A natural centerman by trade, he’s played mostly the wing position during his tenure in Boston, so the trick has been to find two linemates that have a similar work ethic and understanding of their role as Backes does.

That’s one reason why the line of Danton Heinen, Riley Nash and Backes has been one of the more consistent units for the Bruins during their recent string of success.

“Excellent,” Cassidy said when asked about Backes’ contributions since he’s been back in the lineup. “He’s on a line that’s producing for us every night. If it’s not on the score sheet, it’s playing against other teams’ top lines and frustrating them. He’s starting to find the back of the net and more pucks are finding him. Obviously, the more he’s playing the more confident and comfortable he feels.

“He’s a valuable asset to our team. He might not ever be the highest scorer here, but he hits, he’ll get to the net and you know he’s going to get his looks. He’ll play the right way and win his puck battles on the wall, so he’s a very valuable guy.”

Backes’ leadership on and off the ice, along with his relentless physical play, has earned the respect from players around the league. After spending the majority of his pro career with the St. Louis Blues, Backes signed as a free agent with the Bruins in July 2016. He brought with him instant credibility.

Boston’s veteran leadership group of Zdeno Chara, Patrice Bergeron, David Krejci and Tuukka Rask are known mostly for their lead-by-example method. They’re vocal when they need to be, but in some cases that could affect on their respective game. With Backes in tow, he’ll handle the vocal aspect, which can allow more production from the other veterans.

“He’s huge,” said Brad Marchand. “We knew that from Day 1 the moment we signed him. He’s a big leader, a big presence in the room, on the bench and on the ice. We definitely missed him when he was out. It’s great to have him back and he’s definitely found his stride. He’s playing great hockey right now, and his line in general is playing awesome every night. They’re chipping in and scoring goals, playing great defensively and playing big minutes against other teams’ top lines, so we need them to keep going.”

If anyone asks Backes about the play of any of the rookies, or about the team’s overall status, you get an in-depth answer. Ask about his personal game, especially since he’s been back in the lineup after having 10 inches of his colon removed, Backes will give a general answer before quickly turning his attention to the team.

“Pretty good,” Backes said when asked about his production of late. “I feel like my legs are moving and our line is predictable, which makes us look fast and we’re winning battles on the walls. We’re not trying to hit home runs or the highlight-reel goals, but when we have the pass to make we’re making it. We’re putting pressure on other teams, being able to start a lot of shifts in our D-zone and end them in the offensive zone and that’s winning hockey.”

That line has been successful in that role, which is allowing the top lines to start in the offensive zone in order to create quality chances. When he’s playing his style of game, the rest of the team feeds off his energy, which has been noticeable since he’s been back.