Nicklas Backstrom, Manassas Brewery To Release ‘Swede-est Assist’ Hazy IPA Beer

Nicklas Backstrom is diving head first into the beer business.

The longtime Washington Capitals center has partnered with Manassas-based Eavesdrop Brewery to release the “Swede-est Assist” Hazy IPA — a play on Backstrom’s home country and key role as the Capitals’ franchise assist leader.

Backstrom will appear at the brand’s launch event on Saturday, which is scheduled to kick-off around 10 a.m.

VIP tickets, which include a can of the brew, a custom puck, sticker, drink ticket and face time with Backstrom, have sold out, according to Eventbrite. A portion of the event’s sales support the NB19 Assist Scholarship Fund for youth hockey players at The St. James sports complex, the brewery said.

Fans can also obtain free general admission tickets for the event. A limited number of general admission wristbands to meet with Backstrom after the VIP sessions will be disseminated at the event, according to the brewery.