19 Nicklas Backstrom C

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Skipping Worlds

Backstrom listed "injury" as the reason for declining the invitation, and though he hinted that he was bothered by some kind of issue during the playoffs, no further update has been provided. The 31-year-old center finished with 74 points in 80 games -- while adding five goals and eight points in seven postseason contests -- during 2018-19 and should be a top fantasy playmaker again in 2019-20.

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Leads Caps with four points

The four-point outing doubled his playoff output to eight points. Backstrom has taken on the finisher role with five goals in as many games in the series. He's added 11 hits and 15 shots on goal. Three of his points have come with a man advantage.

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Adds two more points

Backstrom has been on fire to open the series, scoring three times across the two games to pace the Capitals' offense. He's more noted as a playmaker, but fantasy owners will certainly appreciate the goals as well. Backstrom had 74 points in 80 contests this season, and he's living up to his first-line center role quite effectively so far in the playoffs.

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Tickles twine twice in win

Backstrom's second goal was of the power-play variety and doubled Washington's lead before Alex Ovechkin stretched it to three prior to the end of the first period. Carolina would get to within one goal, but the Capitals would ultimately hold on for a critical Game 1 victory.

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Back at practice

Backstrom was rested for Saturday's game against the Islanders and is expected to play in Game 1 of Washington's series against the Hurricanes. The Swede will likely be an elite postseason fantasy option after producing 74 points in 80 games this campaign.