After missing training camp and the first 28 games of the 2021-22 season due to ongoing hip rehabilitation, Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom is set to make his season debut Wednesday night at the Chicago Blackhawks.
Backstrom will start his season centering the second line with T.J. Oshie and Conor Sheary.
The Capitals activated Backstrom off of long-term injured reserve earlier in the day. He has been recovering from a hip injury that did not require surgery and he sustained at the end of last season when he led the Capitals in assists (38) and points (53) in 55 games.
HE’S BAAAAAAAAAAAAACK pic.twitter.com/rAUKPqkH1B
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) December 16, 2021
“It’s going to be different…we’ll see how it goes when I start playing,” he said on Monday following practice, which was his first time taking line rushes with the team. “As of practice right now, I’m feeling good, so hopefully that stays the same during the game.”
Love to see @backstrom19 back tonight #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/1jXjl72y2c
— Simba’s Appendix (@simbasappendix) December 16, 2021
He also said the “last couple of weeks” have been good in terms of skating and the physical toll of the game. “It’s been a long journey, but fun to skate with the guys again.” He also said that “it’s been a bit of a rollercoaster” during rehab, noting the emotional aspect was predominant.
It’s good to have you back, Nicky!
By Della Young
