Capitals to make decision on Nicklas Backstrom at training camp

The Washington Capitals are ushering in a new era following the hire of head coach Spencer Carbery. While the Capitals try to blend the old with the new, one hobbled veteran may be at a crossroads.

Following the press introduction to Carbery, Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan opened up about the future of aging center Nicklas Backstrom.

Speaking with the media, MacLellan revealed that Backstrom’s future with the team may depend on next season’s training camp.

“We’ve had a couple conversations about where he is health-wise,” MacLellan said, per Tom Gulitti of NHL.com. “I think he’s deserved a chance to see what he can do in the offseason and come into camp and see where he’s at health-wise. It’s a major surgery, so I don’t know that anybody knows exactly where he’s going to be.”

Backstrom, 36, had pain in his hip that became unbearable, forcing him to have resurfacing hip surgery last year in June. He rehabbed rigorously to get back on the ice for the 2022-23 season. Ultimately, Backstrom made his return in January.

Unfortunately, Backstrom was a shell of himself. He produced 21 points, seven goals, and 14 assists in 39 games. However, just one goal came was even strength. Despite the surgery, Backstrom’s skating was an eyesore, leading to a career-worst minus-25 rating.

Backstrom acknowledged, at the end of the season, he had difficulties skating following the surgery. Yet, he is “looking forward” to being ready for training camp. Backstrom is attempting to become the first NHL player to play a second season after resurfacing hip surgery.

If Backstrom struggles, he could lose his spot in the Capitals’ top six. If things go awry, Backstrom may face a stint on the long-term injured reserve. In that event, the Capitals could settle for a buyout.

Nicklas Backstrom has two years remaining on his five-year, $46 million contract he signed in 2020. A buyout would cost the Capitals $7.333 million which would be spread out over four years.

Backstrom may be shooting to be ready for training camp. But he’ll have to shake MacLellan’s predetermined mindset. MacLellan relayed in April his concerns that Backstrom returns to his old form, saying he hasn’t seen any player be able to do so.

“I don’t know what could happen in the offseason to make [Backstrom’s progression] significantly better, MacLellan said.