Capitals GM Brian MacLellan says Nicklas Backstrom “Unlikely to play again this season”

Just last week, it was announced that longtime Washington Capitals forward Nicklas Backstrom was taking time away from the game to focus on his health.

On Monday during a press conference, Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan announced that Backstrom will unlikely play again this season. “It’s emotional for everybody,” MacLellan stated.

Backstrom released a statement last week regarding his health and decision to step away. “Given my ongoing injury situation, I decided to take some time and step away from the game,” Backstrom said. “This is a difficult decision, but one that I feel is right for my health at this time. I want to thank my teammates, the organization, and the fans for their unwavering support throughout this process. I ask for privacy at this time as I determine my next steps and viable options moving forward.”

The 35-year-old veteran was limited to just 86 games between 2021-22 and 2022-23 after dealing with hip injuries. He returned to training camp in September after having hip resurfacing surgery, saying he felt 100 percent ready to go at the time. However, he notched just one in eight games this season and struggled to keep pace.

Backstrom has spent his entire NHL career with the Capitals since getting drafted No. 4 overall in the 2006 NHL Entry Draft. The Valbo, Sweden product has collected 271 goals and 1,033 points in 1,105 career games, establishing himself as one of the best playmakers in the league. The Swedish center won the Stanley Cup with the Capitals in 2018, adding to a career that saw him win silver at the 2014 Olympics and the 2013 Gargarin Cup as KHL champion. Backstrom currently has a $9.2 million cap hit.