It's Taken Time, But Nicklas Backstrom's Getting His Chance To Play Again — And It's With The Team Where It All Began

Capitals legend Nicklas Backstrom is getting another chance to continue his playing career, this time back where it all began.

For a long time, Washington Capitals legend Nicklas Backstrom seemed to be on an endless road, with his hockey life in flux amid ongoing issues with his hip. Now, he’s back on the ice, his journey coming full circle with his hometown team, Brynäs IF.

Brynäs officially welcomed Backstrom to the mix on Monday, as he officially signed his contract, took the ice and took questions. The Gävle, Sweden, native originally played for the SHL club before beginning his NHL career.

For Backstrom, it’s the ultimate reward, the accomplishment of a goal that’s been years in the making. He’s proven to be one of the best Swedes to ever suit up in the NHL, ranking fourth all-time in assists and sixth all-time in points among his countrymen.

"I've always felt that I would like to represent Brynäs again someday if the opportunity arose," Backstrom said in a release. "I've long had a great drive to return to Brynäs. After undergoing rehab and being away from the game for almost two seasons, I feel energized to contribute to the club's success."

However, Backstrom’s journey to becoming a legend wasn’t a clear-cut path. It took literal blood, sweat and tears. Over his 17-year tenure with the Capitals, Backstrom’s hip continued to grind down from years of wear and tear, causing chronic pain that made it nearly impossible to walk, bend over, put on shoes or even play with his kids.

It led to a tough decision to undergo hip resurfacing surgery, an experimental procedure with a rugged reputation that’s ended several playing careers, while extending a select few. There was nowhere else to turn for Backstrom, so he underwent the surgery in June 2022.

"I think… it was just like — went back to — I don't know, calmness in my body if that makes sense?" Backstrom said of undergoing the surgery. "It was just a nice feeling, you know? I felt it right away, which was nice. It was an awesome feeling for me, personally.

"I think everyone goes through some times when there's darker moments in their career," Backstrom added. "Obviously, that was one of the dark ones for me. So it was tough.”

Unlike several before him, he returned after a lengthy rehabilitation process, taking the ice again in January 2023, calling the surgery a “game-changer.” While he put up 21 points in 39 games, his return didn’t go exactly as he’d written it up.

Though he didn’t want to continue talking about his hip and the ongoing situation, choosing not to speak openly about it, he was still struggling. Ultimately, after eight games to open the 2023-24 campaign, he chose to step away indefinitely, citing ongoing complications following the surgery.

Now, after a two-year absence, he’ll get the chance to start anew.

This time, without pressue. But instead, anticipation, welcome and appreciation as he goes back to where it all began.

"Right now, my body feels great. I've been on the ice all summer. I feel ready to take on that task," Backstrom said, adding, "It's hard to say, but I myself feel that I’m hopefully a good hockey player and can contribute as much as possible."