Backlund notched his first-career hat trick -- one goal on the power play and another shorthanded -- and a plus-3 rating in Thursday's 7-3 win over Vancouver.

EDGE Analysis

Backlund has been ridiculous in April after going pointless in eight straight to end March. The 27-year-old has amassed six goals -- two shorthanded -- in three games, tacking on an assist for good measure. It's easily the center's most productive stretch of the season as he aims to redefine the meaning of finishing strong. Oh, not to mention Backlund now has a new career-high 21 tallies.