Backstrom remains out to begin conference finals vs. Lightning

The Washington Capitals will be without Nicklas Backstrom for Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Final against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

The Swedish center left Game 5 of the second round against the Pittsburgh Penguins with an upper-body injury and proceeded to miss the series-clinching Game 6.

Even though the Capitals were able to beat the Penguins without Backstrom, his absence can't be understated. He had yet another 70-point regular season and was off to a strong start in the postseason, collecting 13 points in 11 games.

Lars Eller will once again be counted on for big minutes down the middle in Backstrom's absence.