Backes scored a goal and added an assist in Wednesday's 6-5 OT win over the Blackhawks. He also skated to a plus-2 and picked up two PIM.

EDGE Analysis

Despite now having only six points in 13 games this season, Backes has been much better of late, scoring three goals and recording an assist while taking seven shots on goal in the last three games -- all against quality opponents in Chicago, L.A. and Minnesota. Aside from his scoring woes, the Blues' captain hasn't been as truculent as usual either, spending just six minutes in the sin bin this year. When all is said and done, though, Backes should still be able to flirt with 50+ points and 100 PIM this year, although it wouldn't be entirely surprising if he fell short given the slow start.