Capitals’ Backstrom In COVID Protocol, Not Expected To Be Setback

ARLINGTON, V.A. — Washington Capitals forward Nicklas Backstrom is working his way back from hip resurfacing surgery this summer, but he will miss a couple of days due to COVID-19.

Backstrom has entered COVID protocol and is not skating, per the team. He will have to miss at least five days and test negative.

Still, head coach Peter Laviolette does not believe that this will set Backstrom back at all in his recovery timeline.

“I think this will be quick. I think he’s been on the ice so long that he’ll get back out here to get his legs under him. Right back up to speed as soon as he can be for not having played in quite a while."

Backstrom hasn't played this season after undergoing the procedure to address chronic hip pain back in June. He said for the first time in years, he is pain-free, able to function and do basic tasks he couldn't do before.

"It was a life-changer for me in daily life," Backstrom said. "Just to pick up socks, tie my shoes, stuff like that, and play with my kids. I couldn't really do that, either. It helped me a lot functionally, and I'm happy about that. That part, I'm feeling great. Now it's just the next step to get me back to the ice."

There were several other Capitals injury updates, as Tom Wilson appears to be getting closer to a return and continues to skate in a regular jersey while ramping back up to game speed. T.J. Oshie also hit the ice in a non-contact jersey and skated for the first time since getting hurt back on Dec. 17 against the Toronto Maple Leafs. Martin Fehervary is also in a regular jersey, and Wednesday was his second full contact practice since suffering an upper-body injury back on Dec. 3 against the Calgary Flames.

Another Swede also took a step in the right direction, as Carl Hagelin took the ice for a skate before the optional started.