Blues GM relishes idea of David Backes playing entire career in St. Louis

St. Louis Blues general manager Doug Armstrong is working toward ensuring captain David Backes remains with the club for as long as possible, according to Craig Custance of ESPN.

The GM engaged in talks with Backes about his future, with the captain set to become an unrestricted free agent in 2016.

Backes, drafted 62nd overall by the Blues in 2003, has served as team captain since 2011, and has been a permanent fixture on the NHL roster since the 2006-07 season.

After several down years coming out of the 2005 lockout, the Blues finished first or second in the Central Division in each of the past four seasons, albeit with only one appearance in the second round of the postseason during that span.

Still, Backes has worn the "C" over that time and remains a constant and solid presence at both ends of the ice for the Blues.

Entering the final season of a five-year, $22.5-million contract, Backes is a core player for a Blues team that's still in contention.