Backstrom makes season debut vs. Blackhawks
Washington Capitals star Nicklas Backstrom made his season debut Wednesday night following an offseason hip injury.
The 34-year-old centered Washington's second line in his return and played over 18 minutes in the Capitals' 5-4 overtime loss against the Chicago Blackhawks. He assisted on Alex Ovechkin's momentous power-play marker in the second period, which tied Ovechkin with Dave Andreychuk for the most power-play goals in NHL history.
Backstrom began the 2021-22 campaign on long-term injured reserve. The Capitals activated him from the injured non-roster list earlier Wednesday.
Backstrom notched 53 points in 55 games last season. The Capitals have fared well without the veteran playmaker, sitting atop the Metropolitan Division through 29 contests.
HEADLINES
- Predators rally to hand reeling Maple Leafs another loss
- Report: Bergevin leaving advisor role with Kings to be Sabres' AGM
- Leafs spiraling, early Hughes impressions, more NHL hot topics
- Habs' Fowler collects 1st NHL shutout in win over Penguins
- Blackhawks' Nazar out approximately 4 weeks after puck to face