A few hours before the Washington Capitals are set to get on a flight to Tampa to kick off the Eastern Conference Final against the Lightning, Caps fans got some encouraging news.
After being struck in the hand by a puck in Game Five of the second round last Saturday, Capitals star center Nicklas Backstrom missed the team’s series-clinching win in Pittsburgh Tuesday. He was seen on camera with his right paw wrapped in a bandage before the game.
Thursday morning, Backstrom took to the ice ahead of the team’s practice at Kettler Capitals Iceplex. NBC 4 captured video, which shows the Swedish pivot skating around the rink while engaging in some light puck handling.
Video
.@backstrom19 takes the ice this morning for a solo skate before Caps practice #StanleyCup #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/KAciTXVHZK
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) May 10, 2018
The fact Backstrom is able to grip his stick is welcome news, though his status remains up in the air. The Capitals open their third-round matchup Friday night.
Capitals head coach Barry Trotz said Wednesday Backstrom’s injury was considered “day-to-day” and he would travel with the team to Tampa.
“He’s working out and getting the therapy he needs,” Trotz said.
Nicklas Backstrom skating this morning is a good sign for the #Caps #ALLCAPS @nbcwashington pic.twitter.com/1apJEvBpXw
— dckerNBC4 (@dckerNBC4) May 10, 2018
Headline photo: Patrick McDermott
