Backstrom was excused from practice Tuesday due to a personal issue, Samantha Pell of The Washington Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

The team didn't provide any sort of update regarding Bcakstrom's availability against the Rangers on Thursday, so for now he should probably be considered questionable at best. The veteran center has been struggling of late with just one goal and zero assists in his last five contests while putting just eight shots on net. If Backstrom does miss any significant time, Lars Eller should be expected to replace him on the second line.

Backstrom scored a goal on two shots and added two power-play assists in Friday's 5-0 win over the Stars.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom helped out on the first two goals of the game, then scored the fifth and final tally late in the second period. The Swede has looked solid in January with three goals and six helpers in nine games. He's up to 12 points (five on the power play), 29 shots on net and a plus-3 rating through 12 contests overall. Even separated from Alex Ovechkin at even strength, Backstrom remains a strong scoring presence at 34 years old.

Backstrom chipped in an assist in a 4-1 loss to the Sharks on Wednesday.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom has two goals and two assists across his last four games now after helping Daniel Sprong on his third period strike. The veteran center has missed plenty of time with injury this season, but is still hovering right around a point per game, with nine points across 11 contests.

Backstrom scored a goal and added an assist in Saturday's 3-2 overtime win over Ottawa.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom stole the biscuit from Josh Norris deep in the slot and then backhanded it over Matt Murray's left pad for the winner in OT. His hands are just so silky. This was Backstrom's first multi-point game in the NHL and he now has eight points, including two goals, in nine games so far.

Backstrom delivered an assist in a 4-2 loss to the Canucks on Sunday.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom had three shots Sunday but still could not find his first goal of the season. The veteran center has assists in back-to-back contests.

Backstrom finished without a point in a 7-3 loss to the Bruins on Monday.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom has only played four games this season and had not played since Dec. 31 (illness) before pulling on the sweater for this one. The 34-year-old center has not been able to establish much of a rhythm to this point, though he does have three assists in four contests. Hopefully he can stay healthy for the second half of the season.

Backstrom (illness) has been activated off injured reserve, per the NHL media site, ahead of Monday's matchup with Boston.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom has been limited to just three games due to injury, COVID-19 protocols and illness. In those opportunities, the 34-year-old center has generated three assists, 11 shots and four hits while averaging 17:01 of ice time. With the Swede seemingly back to 100 percent, he should be in the mix for a spot on the second line in addition to linking up with the No. 1 power-play unit.

Backstrom (illness) was placed on injured reserve Friday, Samantha Pell of The Washington Post reports.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom practiced Thursday as he works his way back from a non-COVID illness, but the move to injured reserve means he will miss the two-game road trip that begins Friday against the Blues. The 34-year-old will be eligible to return for Monday's home match against the Bruins.

Backstrom (illness) returned to practice Thursday, Tom Gulitti of NHL.com reports.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom will be ready for Friday's contest in St. Louis. The 34-year-old has averaged 17:00 of ice time, 5:29 during the power play, and distributed three assists through his three appearances this season.

Backstrom (illness) will not be available Sunday against the Devils.

EDGE Analysis

Backstrom has an assist in each of the three games he's appeared in this season. The 34-year-old should have plenty of time to get healthy before Friday's tilt in St. Louis.