Washington Capitals Star Center Placed On LTIR

The Washington Capitals have placed Nicklas Backstrom on the LTIR. The veteran has been dealing with a hip injury and did not play during the preseason. With this, he will be missing at least the Capitals' first 10 games and 24 days of the season. In response to the move, the Capitals have called up forwards Connor McMichael and Beck Malenstyn from Hershey.

#Caps place center Nicklas Backstrom on long-term injury list and recall forwards Connor McMichael and Beck Malenstyn from the Hershey Bears (AHL).
— CapitalsPR (@CapitalsPR) October 12, 2021

Although 10 games may not seem that like that much time, it's still notable because it's the beginning of the season. How a team starts the regular season can play a big role in the outcome of their success. Backstrom is also still one of Washington's best players, especially when it comes to his offensive production. Furthermore, there's always the chance he could end up missing even more time, too.

In 55 games last season, Backstrom scored 15 goals and had 53 points. Once he returns, it will be great for the Capitals, as he is still a real scoring threat.