David Backes Net Worth, Relationships, Age/Birthdate & Birthday

David Backes is a retired American NHL forward celebrated for his grit, leadership, and commitment both on and off the ice.

Introduction

David Anthony Backes — born May 1, 1984 — carved out a serious legacy over a 15-season career in the National Hockey League (NHL), starring for teams such as the St. Louis Blues, Boston Bruins and Anaheim Ducks. Known for his leadership and two-way play, Backes now enjoys a life that blends family, philanthropy and reflection on a storied career. His estimated net worth is roughly $8 million — according to public financial estimates.  He is married to his longtime partner, Kelly, with whom he shares a passion for animal welfare. 

Quick Facts

From Minnesota Rinks to NHL Stardom

David Backes’s path to hockey prominence traces back to Minneapolis, Minnesota, where he was born and raised. Growing up in a sports-minded community, he committed early to ice hockey. In high school, he was a standout athlete at Spring Lake Park — a foundation that led him to the junior ranks with the Lincoln Stars of the USHL. 

He then honed his craft in college with the Minnesota State Mavericks, where he combined athletic discipline with academic effort — foreshadowing the work ethic that would define his professional career. 

His big break came in the 2003 NHL Entry Draft, when he was selected 62nd overall by the St. Louis Blues.  After adjusting in the AHL, Backes made his NHL debut in December 2006 — and within months, he scored his first NHL goal.

Defining moments in David Backes’s journey include:

• Rising from Minnesota high school and junior hockey to a second-round NHL pick.

• Breaking into the NHL with the Blues in 2006 after initial seasoning in the AHL.

• Establishing himself as a reliable two-way forward known for physicality, point production, and leadership.

• Being named captain of the Blues in 2011 — a recognition of his leadership and impact on and off the ice. 

• Representing the United States at the Olympics and international tournaments, showcasing his talent on a global stage.

The Core Pillars of David Backes’s Wealth

The foundation of Backes’s net worth rests on several key elements:

• Long-term NHL contracts — Throughout his 15-year career, Backes signed multiple high-value contracts, including a five-year, $30 million deal with the Boston Bruins starting in 2016. 

• Career earnings and bonuses — Over his career, Backes is estimated to have earned over $59 million in salary alone, according to independent salary trackers. 

• Post-career ventures & residuals — While publicly listed net worth remains modest (about $8 million), long-term earnings and residuals from retirement, along with prudent financial management, contribute to his wealth base. 

Relationships & Family Life

Beyond the ice, Backes’s personal life has centered around family and compassion. He is married to Kelly Backes — a partner in life and advocacy. Their shared commitment to animal welfare is a major pillar of their life together. 

Key insights into David Backes’s relationships and personal life:

• Married life with Kelly, with whom he co-founded an animal-welfare initiative. 

• Together they have supported and raised awareness for pet adoption and animal rescue campaigns.

• Backes has maintained a relatively private personal life — preferring to keep family matters away from the spotlight, focusing media attention on his philanthropic efforts rather than personal drama.

Life Beyond Hockey: Interests, Passions & Philanthropy

Beyond career success, David Backes leads a lifestyle that reflects both passion and purpose, including:

• Dedicated advocacy for animal welfare — he and Kelly have been actively involved in pet adoption drives, rescues, and supporting shelters. 

• A well-documented love for the outdoors, reflecting his Minnesota roots — including hockey’s physicality, which often cultivates a respect for nature among players, though Backes has kept most personal hobbies private.

• Maintenance of a private, family-oriented life — his public identity blends ex-athlete, father, husband, and philanthropist. 

Net Worth Breakdown & Analysis

It’s worth noting that net worth estimates for retired athletes often lag behind actual wealth — particularly if they have made smart investments or maintained residual income streams. For Backes, given a career spanning over a decade and substantial earnings, actual long-term wealth may be higher than public estimates suggest. Earnings during his NHL tenure — including signing bonuses and year-to-year salary — represent the lion’s share of his financial foundation.

Public Image, Legacy & Influence

In the world of professional sports, Backes earned a reputation as a quintessential “power forward” — someone who combined scoring ability, physical toughness, and leadership. Fans and analysts often pointed to his consistency, work ethic, and willingness to play under pressure as reasons for his respect across locker rooms and fanbases. 

Off the ice, Backes’s co-founding of Athletes for Animals — with his wife Kelly — has resonated widely. Their efforts to rescue pets and raise awareness for adoption gave Backes a second identity as philanthropist, broadening his legacy beyond sports. 

His journey — from small-town Minnesota to NHL captaincy and charitable advocacy — remains a model for aspiring athletes. He showed how professional success can be balanced with personal values, commitment to community, and life beyond sport.

Conclusion

David Backes’s story is one of determination, leadership, and compassion. Born May 1, 1984, he rose through Minnesota’s hockey ranks to become captain of the St. Louis Blues, a respected veteran of over 15 NHL seasons, and a public figure known for both athletic excellence and philanthropic dedication. His estimated net worth of about $8 million reflects strong earnings and prudent financial management over a successful career — but perhaps tells only part of the story.

In marriage to Kelly and shared service through animal-welfare advocacy, Backes has shown that legacy isn’t only about points, contracts, or statistics — it’s about using one’s platform to make a real difference. His journey suggests a lasting impact, not just in record books, but in hearts.