The Washington Capitals are heading right into a transitional interval after Alex Ovechkin broke the all-time targets file. Whereas they preserve including younger gamers to their group, gamers from the 2018 Stanley Cup squad are heading out. TJ Oshie has already retired, and now a legendary heart is hanging it up. Capitals legend Niklas Backstrom has signed together with his hometown group in Sweden.
“I’ve at all times felt like a return to Brynas was within the playing cards ought to the chance current itself,” Backstrom stated. “That is been a drive of mine, to have the ability to return and play for Brynas. I’ve spent the previous two years away from the sport, focusing totally on rehabbing my damage, so I really feel extremely energized and excited to get again on the ice and assist the group obtain success. I had 18 extremely good years in Washington, each within the group and the town. I’ve rather a lot to thank them for,” Backstrom stated, per NHL.com.
Backstrom has not performed for the Capitals since October of 2023 because of numerous accidents. He has determined to return to Sweden to spherical out his taking part in profession, doubtless ending his NHL profession. Backstrom was chosen fourth general by the Capitals in 2006 and performed each recreation with the franchise.
Backstrom has probably the most assists in Capitals historical past and is behind solely Ovechkin in video games performed and factors. Whereas playmaking was his main ability, Backstrom did rating 271 targets in his profession. His Corridor of Fame candidacy is robust, particularly contemplating his Stanley Cup title and 1,033 profession factors.
The Capitals now enter an period that will probably be full of jersey retirements and Corridor of Fame inductions. Alex Ovechkin remains to be round, perhaps only for yet one more 12 months, however a brand new period is rising. Can Jacob Chychryn and Ryan Leonard lead this group to an identical legacy?