David Backes appears headed for the open market.
The soon-to-be former St. Louis Blues captain is set to officially become an unrestricted free agent after a last-ditch attempt by the club to retain his services, according to Bob McKenzie of TSN.
McKenzie adds the Boston Bruins have significant interest, while the Minnesota Wild are definitely still in the mix, according to Michael Russo of the Star Tribune.
Backes, 32, is coming off a five-year, $22.5-million contract with the Blues. He recorded 21 goals and 24 assists in 79 games this past season.
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