David Backes

Sent: 1/5/11
Received: 4/13/11
Time: 98 Days
Address: c/o St. Louis Blues
Item Sent: 2008-09 O-Pee-Chee Retro
Item Received: 2008-09 O-Pee-Chee Retro, signed in blue Sharpie.

Notes:
David Backes might be my favorite player right now.  He's a local guy, is exceptionally smart, and plays a tough, throwback game.  He is very physical, annually ranking among the league leaders in hits.  He can handle the puck, too.  He just wrapped up a career-best 62 point season (31 goals, 31 assists).  He also kept his penalty minutes under 100 for the first time in three years.  He wore the alternate captain's "A" all season, and the Blues didn't promote anyone after longtime captain Eric Brewer was traded to Tampa Bay.  I will be absolutely shocked if Backes isn't wearing the "C" next season.