Overview

• The extension covers the 2026–27 and 2027–28 seasons at a $3.25 million AAV, totaling $6.5 million.
• Backlund’s new deal represents a drop from his current $4.5 million salary to stay with the only NHL team he has played for.
• Backlund initiated talks with a call to GM Craig Conroy, citing family ties and a desire to continue his career in Calgary.
• The signing removes him from trade-deadline speculation and preserves a mentorship presence for the club’s developing centers.
• The deal positions him to be on the roster when Scotia Place opens in 2027–28 and keeps him on pace to challenge Jarome Iginla’s games-played record.