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Washington Capitals: Nicklas Backstrom helps Sweden beat Denmark

By Dave Stevenson |
Apr 21, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom (19) shoots the puck against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first period in game five of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 2-1 in overtime and lead the series 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 21, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom (19) shoots the puck against the Toronto Maple Leafs in the first period in game five of the first round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 2-1 in overtime and lead the series 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom got a goal and an assist in his first game at the IIHF World Championships at Sweden beat Denmark 4-2. 

The Washington Capitals are recovering from yet another disappointing season. Some players go about their healing differently. For Nicklas Backstrom, his healing process begins with representing Sweden at the 2017 IIHF World Championships so his hockey season can end more positively. He made an immediate impact for his country in his first game on Sunday. Backstrom got a goal and an assist while playing alongside Toronto Maple Leafs forward William Nylander. He helped Sweden win 4-2 over Denmark.

He’s not a stranger to playing alongside the young star forward. After all, Backstrom used to hang out with William back when his father Michael Nylander played for the Capitals. It’s pretty darn cool to see the duo together knowing they have such a unique connection. Nylander and Backstrom combined for a ridiculous give and go goal. It’s almost unfair how great they are together.

If the Washington Capitals ever get the chance to acquire Nylander, they should probably do so. Backstrom wasn’t done even after this nasty assist. He also picked up a goal while stealing a page from the book of Alex Ovechkin.

Backstrom’s clearly been watching Ovi all these years. He’s probably been wishing he could pull off a one-timer like him. Backstrom finally got his chance and he didn’t disappoint. The Capitals center showed off his high hockey IQ by adjusting very well to his new team in just his first game with them.

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Number 19 finished the season strong and emerged as a vocal leader on the team, especially after Game 4 against the Pittsburgh Penguins. Hopefully Backstrom can finish strong at the 2017 IIHF World Championships and carry it over to next season.

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