That's a massive downgrade at center ice.

OTT doesnt come anywhere near this

Flames are in first place, I don't see them dumping their 3C mid-season to plug in a street UFA like Eric Staal. If you want to move his cap hit, you do it in the offseason when there's going to be more possible destinations for him.

Islanders say yes in a heartbeat, though.

Backlund's contract has term left, but he's excellent as a 3C and doesn't need to be given away. Ottawa would take this and run because he could be flipped for more.