endemicWings

Backstrom is one of the few players who deserve this type of deal. I'd only take a handful of players before him if I was starting a team from scratch. Good move for the Caps, maybe they can win something during the next 7 years...

Agree with it all...even though it's not the greatest thing for the Wings, I'd don't believe Chicago should be penalized for good scouting and if they want to keep everyone, let them pay the tax!

I'm not sure who exactly, but I know a few of the Blackhawks second-tier players(guys like Byfuglien/Bolland/Haljmerson/etc) may be available if Scotty Bowman's son can't find a way to move Huet/cut some other salaries... I think those guys will be available at a decent price, and it will hurt a division rival as well. It's not going to kill them, as their top of the line talent is so good, but it will make them a bit easier to handle before Kane/Toews/Seabrook/Niemi hit their prime.