Flames Captain Fuming Over All The Trade "Noise"

The Calgary Flames' upheaval has reached a boiling point, as far as captain Mikael Backlund is concerned. Trade rumors have swirled around the team as a number of players are impending free agents, and one, Nikita Zadorov, has indeed requested to be moved. According to a report from NHL Insider Elliotte Friedman, Backlund is tired of all the controversy. 

From what I understand, Backlund spoke to some of the players, I don't know if it was in a group or one-on-one, but he said 'we have to END THE NOISE'. There are too many distractions around the team... He just said 'enough of that. We have to concentrate on playing. If you don't want to be here, let the general manager know, and we'll figure it out. But for as long as you're here, no more noise, we have to play'.

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In addition to Zadorov, fellow blueliners Noah Hanifin and Chris Tanev are also trade candidates, with their impending UFA status.  

Former NHLer Kevin Bieksa called the move by Backlund all "class." 

"It's called being a professional... Everyone has their own job to do, but ultimately you're part of a big team that's trying to win hockey games. So your personal agenda, whether you want more ice time or whether you want to move teams, has to be set aside, or kept quiet. Great move by Backlund."

Backlund, in his 16th year with the Flames, was just named captain before the season, after signing a two-year, $9 million contract extension. Just six weeks into his new leadership role, he's already showing that the 'C' belongs on his jersey.

Photo: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports