19 Nicklas Backstrom C

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: One assist shy of a handful

It was business as usual for the Swedish center, who now has 28 helpers to go along with 10 goals this season. For years, Backstrom, along with Alex Ovechkin, has torched the league and this year has been no different, with Backstrom assisting on each of Ovi's three markers Tuesday night. Next up for Washington is an away game in Carolina on Friday. The two teams have yet to face one another, but odds are Backstrom will find the scoresheet. Facing the Hurricanes 53 times over his career, the 31-year-old has posted 56 points, including 42 assists.

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Second career hat trick

His power-play goal midway through the third period proved to be the game-winner, but Backstrom didn't complete his second career hat trick until Alex Ovechkin set him up for an empty-netter with 23 seconds left in the game. Backstrom posted seven goals and 19 points in 15 games over the last month, recording more multi-point efforts (four) than nights he was held off the scoresheet (three).

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Tallies game-winner

The veteran center is playing well lately, but this was his first multi-point game since Nov. 3. Since that date, though, he's been rather consistent with three goals and nine points in eight games. As usual, Backstrom has far more assists than goals, but that's to be expected, and owners have to love -- whether it continues or not -- that currently, he's on pace to set a new career high in helpers.

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Notches helper Monday

Backstrom has points in consecutive games following a three-game point drought, bringing him to three goals and 16 points in 13 games. The 30-year-old Swede would likely benefit from more even-strength playing time with Alex Ovechkin, but his production hasn't exactly declined despite playing predominantly with T.J. Oshie on the second line, so keep him in your lineup regularly.

Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Snaps three-game slump

He'd gone three games without points, so it was nice to see him break the slump. Backstrom has 15 points (three goals, 12 assists) in 12 games so far. And nine of the points have come with the man advantage. Backstrom is one of the most underrated forwards in the NHL. He needs to be active in every format.