David Backes Trade "likely" Ahead of Trade Deadline

Friday morning, it was announced that a trade involving Bruins forward David Backes may be more realistic than originally thought.

Expect a move involving David Backes before Monday’s trade deadline. Likely moving back to the Western Conference. #Bruins

— Andy Strickland (@andystrickland) February 21, 2020

David Backes, who turns 36-years-old in May, has two years left on a contract that has a $6M cap hit.

Despite Backes' leadership qualities, having been the captain of the St. Louis Blues for 5 years, his contract has unfortunately put a stranglehold on the Bruins flexibility with cap space. And considering the importance of extending power-play quarterback and star-defenseman Torey Krug, the Bruins could benefit from as much cap space flexibility as possible.

Moving Backes' cap hit opens up a lot of opportunities for the Bruins - including the opportunity to trade for Rangers' prominent forward Chris Kreider, and potentially sign him to an extension, as well. The Bruins have been heavily linked to Kreider ahead of the trade deadline, however if past seasons are an indication of the current situation in Sweeney's office, he may be looking at a trade nobody has considered yet.