Nicklas Backstrom, the longtime center for the Washington Capitals, officially ended his NHL career after his contract expired in the summer of 2024. Known widely as the Capitals’ star playmaker and partner to Alex Ovechkin, Backstrom’s impact on the game extends far beyond his role as a teammate—earning him the title of a true Capitals legend. His steady production and unselfish style made him one of the NHL’s most consistent performers over his 16-season tenure.
Nicklas Backstrom’s Lasting Impact and Career Highlights
Throughout 1,105 regular-season contests and 139 playoff appearances with the Capitals, Backstrom recorded an impressive 1,033 points, comprising 271 goals and 762 assists. He holds the franchise record for most assists and ranks second in overall points in Capitals history. Additionally, he is second in total games played for the team, trailing only defenseman John Carlson. Backstrom’s career numbers underscore his significance to Washington, yet he rarely received the broader league recognition that his statistics warranted. Often overshadowed by his linemate and lifelong friend Alex Ovechkin, Backstrom’s contributions were critical but understated in the larger NHL narrative.
The Rise of a Swedish Star in the NHL
Backstrom’s hockey skills were apparent even before he entered the NHL. Hailing from Sweden, he was heralded as one of the most promising talents since Peter Forsberg. In the 2006-07 season, he showcased his offensive prowess with Brynäs IF, delivering 26 points in 46 games. That same year, Backstrom impressed in the World Junior Championships, earning seven points in just 13 games across two tournaments. Drafted fourth overall in 2006, he made an immediate impact in his NHL rookie campaign, posting 14 goals and 55 assists over 82 games and earning a spot on the NHL All-Rookie team in 2008.
Backstrom established himself as a reliable and steady offensive force throughout his career. From the 2007-08 season to 2019-20, he never scored fewer than 44 points in a season and achieved six straight years with 50 or more assists. His playing style, marked by precise passing and calm playmaking, underscored his role as a facilitator rather than a goal scorer. One of his career pinnacles was during the 2018 Stanley Cup Playoffs when he tallied 23 points in 20 games, contributing significantly to the Capitals’ first-ever Stanley Cup victory.
Recognition Deferred Despite Elite Performance
Despite finishing his NHL career with more points than notable stars like Nathan MacKinnon, Nikita Kucherov, and Brad Marchand, Backstrom’s name rarely features in discussions of the league’s all-time greatest players. His quiet, selfless style rarely drew attention compared to flashy goal scorers, and his calm presence often placed him in the shadow of more high-profile teammates like Ovechkin and Evgeny Kuznetsov. Fans and analysts familiar with the Capitals recognize him as one of the franchise’s greatest talents and one of the league’s most proficient playmakers of his generation.
Continuing Hockey Journey Back in Sweden
Although Backstrom’s NHL chapter has closed, his hockey career continues as he returns to the Swedish league, signing a one-year deal with Brynäs IF, the very team where his professional journey began. He recently demonstrated that he remains an impactful player by scoring two points in his first preseason appearance. After his return to the ice, Backstrom shared his feelings with reporters.
“To be completely honest, it was a bit of a whirlwind. I haven’t played in a while,” —Nicklas Backstrom, NHL Veteran
“I was pretty nervous before the match, too. You get a little nervous and a little more passive, maybe. But now I’ve played the first match, and now I’m going to try to work more and more into it.” —Nicklas Backstrom, NHL Veteran
His return has brought excitement among Swedish hockey fans, eager to see a player of his caliber back on home ice. This next phase allows Backstrom to reconnect with his roots and continue contributing to the sport on familiar ground.
Nicklas Backstrom’s story reflects a career of steady excellence and quiet leadership, making him one of the most underrated yet respected figures in Capitals history and NHL lore. As he embarks on this new chapter, his legacy as a premier playmaker and team player remains firmly intact.