Backlund, who was raised in Västerås IK, was drafted by Calgary as early as 2007 and has remained in the organization since then. Last season, he wore the captain's armband in the team for the first time.
The new agreement gives the Swede 3.25 million dollars per season – equivalent to just over 31 million kronor.
I'm very happy that I'll get to be a part of what's coming. I'm happy that the management believes I'll be good enough for the next two seasons, he says.
With the contract extension, Backlund has the chance to surpass club icon Jarome Iginla in the number of games played for the club. Iginla stayed at 1,219 games and Backlund is currently 153 games behind.
Of course, I thought about it, but the most important thing for the family was to stay here and be part of the next chapter with this club, says the Swede.
The upcoming season will be Backlund's 18th in the NHL. Last year, he was credited with 15 goals and 17 assists in 76 games.
Backlund has a World Championship gold in 2018 with Tre Kronor on his merit list. He has also been involved in winning a World Championship silver and two World Championship bronzes.
The NHL season starts on October 7. Calgary begins away against rival Edmonton.
