Blues GM: Backes will 'most likely' hit free agent market

Doug Armstrong isn't expecting to sign his captain to a new deal before the start of free agency.

David Backes is one of five pending UFAs on the St. Louis Blues' roster heading into July 1, joining Troy Brouwer, Steve Ott, Scottie Upshall, and Kyle Brodziak.

"I think the unrestricted guys will most likely hit the market," the general manager told Jeremy Rutherford of the St. Louis Post-Dispatch on Saturday.

"We'd like to have David back and hopefully as we push in we can get it done, but it has to work for both sides not just one."

Backes posted 21 goals and 45 points last season, but those were his lowest totals through an 82-game season in the last six years. He notched seven goals and 14 points in 20 playoff contests.

Armstrong said Saturday he wants to reward the veteran for his work over the years, but also knows the 32-year-old forward's production could continue to decline.

"We're willing to invest a little bit of 'thank you' money, but it has to make sense," the GM said. "He's earned the right ... but only to a level."

Armstrong added, "It's got to work for David and it's got to work for us. We haven't been able to find that common ground right now."

The Blues have about $13 million in projected cap space, according to General Fanager, and Armstrong will also need to negotiate new deals for pending restricted free agents Jaden Schwartz and Magnus Paajarvi.