Flames Rumors: Mikael Backlund Previously Linked to Central Team

In his most recent 32 Thoughts piece, Elliotte Friedman reported that the Colorado Avalanche expressed interest in Calgary Flames forward Mikael Backlund before acquiring Ryan Johansen and Ross Colton this offseason.

Backlund has been the subject of trade rumors this offseason. This is because he is entering the final season of his contract, and he has not made a decision about wanting to stick with the Flames past this season.

It makes sense that the Avalanche were interested in Backlund this offseason. Before adding Johansen and Colton, they desperately needed to improve their center depth. This was especially so after they lost J.T. Compher to the Detroit Red Wings through free agency.

Although Backlund did not end up being shipped off to Colorado, perhaps the Avalanche could pursue him at the trade deadline this year. We will need to wait and see if they do just that from here. It is clear that they like the player.