Backstrom won't play Friday in Winnipeg due to the league's COVID-19 protocols.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom made his long-awaited season debut Wednesday in Chicago, posting an assist, but he won't make the trip to Winnipeg. It's likely, though not confirmed, that his absence Friday is due to entry requirements at the Canadian border. Regardless of the reason, the veteran Swede will set his sights on returning Sunday against the visiting Kings.