A dominant two-way forward who played 15 NHL seasons, earning two Olympic silver medals and winning the Selke Trophy as the league's top defensive forward.
David Backes is a household name in the world of professional ice hockey, renowned for his exceptional skills on the rink and his unwavering dedication to the sport. With a career spanning over 15 years, Backes has left an indelible mark on the National Hockey League (NHL), donning the jerseys of the St. Louis Blues, Boston Bruins, and Anaheim Ducks.
Born on May 1, 1984, in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Backes grew up in Spring Lake Park, Minnesota. He developed a passion for ice hockey at a young age and honed his skills through his high school years at Spring Lake Park High School. Backes' impressive performances earned him several accolades, including All-Conference, All-Metro, and All-State honors.
After high school, Backes joined the Lincoln Stars of the United States Hockey League (USHL) for two seasons, where he was selected 62nd overall by the St. Louis Blues in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft. He then went on to play collegiate hockey with the Minnesota State Mavericks, leading the team to a NCAA Tournament appearance in 2005.
Backes turned professional in 2006, joining the St. Louis Blues' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, the Peoria Rivermen. He made his NHL debut with the Blues in 2007 and quickly established himself as a formidable force on the ice. In 2011, Backes was named team captain, a role he held for five seasons.
In 2016, Backes signed with the Boston Bruins, where he played for three seasons before joining the Anaheim Ducks in 2019. Throughout his NHL career, Backes has consistently demonstrated his commitment to the sport, earning recognition as a two-time Olympian and a silver medalist at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver.
Backes has proudly represented the United States in several international competitions, including the IIHF World Championships and the Winter Olympics. His Olympic debut came in 2010, where he helped the U.S. team secure a silver medal. He also participated in the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi, Russia.
Throughout his illustrious career, Backes has received numerous accolades, including:
Backes is an advocate for animal welfare and has been involved with several charitable organizations, including the St. Louis Blues' "Blues for Kids" foundation and the "Athletes for Animals" organization. He is also a dedicated husband and father of three children.
David Backes' remarkable career has left an indelible mark on the world of professional ice hockey. His unwavering dedication, passion, and leadership have inspired countless young players, and his commitment to giving back to the community has made a tangible difference in the lives of many.
As he continues to make his presence felt in the hockey world, Backes' legacy serves as a testament to the power of hard work, perseverance, and community involvement. His impact will undoubtedly be felt for generations to come.
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Defenseman who has played for several NHL teams, including the Washington Capitals, and won a Stanley Cup championship in 2018. Known for his offensive skills and power-play expertise.
