Capitals’ Nicklas Backstrom exits Game 1 vs. Islanders

Washington Capitals forward Nicklas Backstrom is forced to leave the game after being hit by New York Islanders forward Anders Lee.

Washington Capitals centre Nicklas Backstrom left Game 1 against the New York Islanders with an undisclosed injury and will not return.

While the nature of Backstrom’s injury is unclear, the 32-year-old took a hit by Anders Lee at 2:33 of the first period. Lee received a two-minute minor for interference on the play.

Backstrom stayed in the game for the remainder of the first period but was not on the bench when the second frame got underway.

The Swede racked up 12 goals and 54 points for the Capitals during the regular season, adding an assist in Washington’s three round-robin games in the Toronto hub.

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