Mikael Backlund (undisclosed) was back at practice on Wednesday. The center should be in the Flames lineup on Thursday. He had 10 goals and 25 points in 73 games last season and should do much better in 2011-12. He could be the sleeper that you've been looking for in your pool as he has a great opportunity to start the season on the top line with Jarome Iginla and Alex Tanguay. He could get 50-60 points this season if he remains with the Flames top unit.

Mikael Backlund is battling an undisclosed injury. Backlund might still be able to play in Thursday's preseason game. He had 10 goals and 25 points in 73 games last season. Stay tuned.

Mikael Backlund is hoping to start the season on a line with Jarome Iginla and Alex Tanguay. "That's what I've been working on the whole summer, thinking I want to play on that line and contribute and be a key player on the team," Backlund said. He looked good on the top line with those two towards the end of the 2010-11 campaign, so we wouldn't be surprised if he ends up on that line. He could reach the 50 point mark if he plays regularly with Iginla and Tanguay.

Mikael Backlund did not lace up the skates until August this season. Backlund had been skating by July in previous off-seasons but decided to change his routine. "The last couple of years, I was skating in July, and when camp would come, I'd be sick of it," Backlund said. "This time, I waited a few weeks, and that's made me extra excited." Backlund has also been working with the Flames strength and conditioning coach and has lost all his 'baby fat' according to Brent Sutter. Look for the former first round pick to improve greatly on his 10 goal, 25 point season of 2010-11 as he has the ability to get 40-50 points, especially if he centers Jarome Iginla.