#3 Nicklas Backstrom
Coming in at number three on our list is none other than Nicklas Backstrom, the most underrated playmaking center in the league.
Backstrom is the most skilled passers in the league and has had six consecutive seasons of 50 or more assists since the 2013-14 season. This season (2019-20 if you’re reading this then) before the pause, Backstrom had 42 assists and was well on his way to his seventh straight season of 50 assists.
Backstrom has gone on to become the Capitals all-time franchise leader in assists and is second all-time in franchise points behind Alex Ovechkin. Backstrom was introduced by Ovechkin on his draft night being selected fourth overall in 2006.
Backstrom recorded his first NHL point assisting on a goal by Michael Nylander against the Atlanta Thrashers. His rookie campaign got better once he got promoted to the top line next to Ovechkin where the two became inseparable.
Backstrom is more than just a sidekick to Ovechkin, he’s a hero this city needs and an impact player that deserves more accolades than he already has. Perhaps he’d have more if he wasn’t on the same team as Ovechkin but thankfully we don’t have to worry about that.
Backstrom is perhaps the best center to ever suit up in a Capitals uniform and deserves this spot on our list.