Nicklas Backstrom ended a 12-game goalless streak Sunday against the New York Rangers.
The Super Swede scored twice, and almost added another late in the third period.
Alex Ovechkin was very impressed.
Goal 1
Backstrom’s first goal came in the first period after John Carlson sent the puck to Nicklas Backstrom near the goal mouth with a genius fake shot/slap pass. Backstrom one-timed it past Henrik Lundqvist for his 14th goal of the season.
The goal tied the game 1-1.
Goal 2
Backstrom added another goal 3:01 into the third period. The Swedish center picked up a loose puck, skated into the slot, and beat Lundqvist high and glove side.
The unassisted goal gave the Caps a 5-3 lead.
Alex Ovechkin’s reaction on the bench was priceless. The Russian machine raised his arms and bent them down multiple times, telling Backstrom We’re Not Worthy!
After high-fiving Backstrom, Ovechkin smiled and then looked back up at the scoreboard, further admiring his teammate’s snipe.
Backstrom had an opportunity for his fourth career hat trick, but could not connect, instead, hitting the crossbar.
After the game, Backstrom was asked if it was merely irony that he scored from similar spots on the ice and targeted Lundqvist’s glove.
“I wouldn’t say that I really have a game plan [on where to shoot],” Backstrom said laughing. “It’s just one of those days when the puck went in and I’ll take it. It doesn’t really matter who’s in net, but yeah, I’ll take it.
In 62 games this season, Backstrom has 15 goals and 58 points. He’s the Capitals’ second leading scorer.
