Backstrom returning to Capitals' lineup Monday after 8-game absence

The red-hot Washington Capitals are about to get one of their best players back.

Nicklas Backstrom will make his return Monday against the Columbus Blue Jackets, the club confirmed Sunday.

The star forward has missed the last eight contests with what the team called an upper-body ailment. He suffered the injury Nov. 18 in a game against the Anaheim Ducks.

Backstrom has posted 18 points in 23 contests this season.

The 32-year-old center, a pending unrestricted free agent who recently opened contract talks by representing himself, is the Capitals' all-time assists leader. He also ranks second in career points among Washington skaters and fourth on the franchise's all-time goals list.

Washington boasts the best record in the NHL and has won six consecutive games.