Backstrom debuts with 3 points, leads Capitals over Hurricanes

Nicklas Backstrom debuted with a goal and two helpers as the Washington Capitals - fully functional for the first time this season - came away with a 4-1 victory over the Carolina Hurricanes on Saturday night.

Backstrom's assists were both primary power-play helpers. His goal, scored just after puck drop in the third, kick-started a three-goal outburst that saw the Capitals put Carolina away and improve to 3-1.

Washington's only loss this season came when both Alex Ovechkin and Backstrom were absent from the lineup.

Backstrom, the NHL's reigning assists leader, returned after completing his recovery from offseason hip surgery.