When the Abbotsford Heat take on the Rockford IceHogs on Friday night, it will be their first game in front of their home fans in more than two weeks.

Heat supporters, therefore, could be forgiven if they don't immediately recognize Mikael Backlund.

Earlier in the season, the 20-year-old Swedish centre struggled mightily to adjust to the pro game. But after going pointless in his first four matches of the year, the highly touted prospect hit his stride in a big way during the Heat's recent six-game road trip.

Backlund potted three goals and an assist on the road swing – including key markers in wins over the Hamilton Bulldogs and Lake Erie Monsters – and he returns home bursting with confidence.

"I feel more comfortable than I did at the beginning," said Backlund, a first-round pick by the Calgary Flames in 2007. "I know I have a few more steps to take, and I can play better. But I'm starting to feel more comfortable every day."

Backlund said that his wake-up call came in the fourth game of the regular season, when Heat coach Jim Playfair deployed him on the fourth line against the Manitoba Moose. That's unfamiliar territory for a player who's touted as a potential top-six forward at the NHL level.

"I didn't work hard enough in the first three games," Backlund said in a frank self-assessment. "Jim told me I had to start working harder, so I pulled myself together.

"I felt better every day, and getting some goals and points of course helps the confidence."

The Heat take on the IceHogs on Friday (7:30 p.m.) and Saturday (6 p.m.) at the Abbotsford Entertainment and Sports Centre.