Backstrom's 4-assist night puts him in impressive company
Nicklas Backstrom demonstrated once again Saturday night that he's still one of the NHL's best playmakers.
The Washington Capitals center led all skaters with four points in a 6-4 victory over the Montreal Canadiens, and in doing so, joined some elite company.
All four of Backstrom's points were helpers, tying Wayne Gretzky for the second-most four-assist performances in the last 25 NHL seasons, according to TSN.
The 30-year-old chipped in four helpers for the 11th time in his career, which is the most among active players.
He also tied Mike Gartner for third on the Capitals' all-time points list with 789 while padding his lead atop the franchise assist list with 582 after Saturday's contest.
It was the 20th career four-point game for Backstrom, and his second of the season.