The Washington Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan revealed that center Nicklas Backstrom is expected to be sidelined for the remainder of the season. This update comes as Backstrom continues to struggle to cope with his surgically repaired left hip.
“It’s emotional for everybody. He’s been such a big part of the organization,” MacLellan explained. “It’s a tough situation, and eventually everybody’s got to move on.” The 36-year-old player is expected to be placed on long-term injured reserve.
Behind captain Alex Ovechkin, Backstrom is the longest-serving player on the Capitals’ roster. His 762 career assists are the most in the franchise’s history. After returning from his surgery in the summer of 2022, Backstrom has only managed to appear in eight games.
