Alex Ovechkin expressed heartfelt admiration for his long-standing teammate Nicklas Backstrom after playing together in the recent Match of the Year scrimmage, which featured Russian NHL stars competing against KHL players. Their enduring partnership, spanning 17 seasons and thousands of games, was highlighted during the event as Ovechkin reflected on their shared journey.
Backstrom’s Legacy with the Capitals and Contract Status
Nicklas Backstrom’s contract with the Washington Capitals officially expired on July 1, marking the end of his 17-season tenure with the team. Throughout his career with the Capitals, Backstrom scored an impressive 1,033 points in 1,105 games and holds the franchise record for assists with 762. Notably, 279 of those assists were on goals scored by Ovechkin, making him the most frequent collaborator on Ovechkin’s goal-scoring success.
The Timeline of Ovechkin and Backstrom’s Partnership
The duo first appeared on the ice together on October 5, 2007, and played their final game as teammates on October 29, 2023. Shortly after, Backstrom announced a pause to his NHL career due to persistent complications from hip surgery. Reports indicate that he is considering a return to his roots by signing with Brynas IF, his original Swedish Hockey League club, resuming his playing career in Sweden. Reflecting this transition, Backstrom sold his home in Northern Virginia during the spring and has since relocated back to his hometown of Gävle.
Backstrom’s Continued Role During Recovery and Support for Ovechkin
Despite not playing last season, Backstrom remained closely connected to the Capitals. When Ovechkin was recovering from a broken leg in December, Backstrom practiced alongside him to help refine his timing on the ice. He also accompanied the team on trips, including one to Long Island, where he was present at UBS Arena as Ovechkin broke the NHL all-time goals record against the New York Islanders. In a poignant moment, Backstrom embraced Ovechkin in the locker room, visibly emotional, and posed for a photo holding the milestone goal puck with his longtime teammate.
Participation in Celebrations and Meaningful Gestures
Backstrom took part in several significant Capitals events after his playing time ended. These included the unveiling of a championship plaque at Washington Harbour, the Caps 50 Fest, and the Gr8 City Celebration at Capital One Arena following Ovechkin’s 895th goal. During this ceremony, Backstrom surprised Ovechkin with a gift on stage: a baby goat representing “Gr8ness,” a playful acronym for Greatest Of All Time, symbolizing Ovechkin’s remarkable achievements.
Ovechkin Reflects on Their Friendship and Lighthearted Moments
Speaking to Match TV, Ovechkin said,
“We grew up together as hockey players, as people,”
emphasizing their long history and close bond. He added,
“One of my best partners, of course.”
Ovechkin also mentioned the baby goat gift, saying it is “alive and well” and “moderately plump.” He explained,
“You could say Backstrom gave it to me as a joke. What happened when I broke the record… Everyone just went crazy and started doing crazy things.”
Enduring Impact and What Lies Ahead
The partnership between Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom stands as one of the most productive and enduring collaborations in NHL history, highlighted by their complementary skills and mutual respect. As Backstrom contemplates a return to professional hockey in Sweden, Ovechkin’s legacy continues to solidify with the Capitals, underscored by this deep connection. Their shared history not only illustrates their individual talents but also the strength of teamwork sustained over nearly two decades.