Mikael Backlund hasn’t always been the defensive ace, shutdown centreman and offensive wizard he is today.
In fact, the Calgary Flames pivot can still recall all too well his exit meeting with then-head coach Brent Sutter following the 2011-12 National Hockey League campaign.
“It wasn’t that great,” said Backlund with a chuckle. “A big lesson. He was honest with me and that’s what I needed to hear."
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"He said, basically, I need to pick my game up," Backlund said. "Let’s just put it that way."
Dealing with a shoulder and finger injuries that campaign, Backlund only suited up for 41 games, scoring four goals and seven assists and was a minus-13.