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PHT Morning Skate: Where Backstrom’s a big part of Ovechkin’s success

Alex Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom

Nicklas Backstrom #19 and Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals talk during the second period against the Montreal Canadiens at Verizon Center on January 24, 2013 in Washington, DC. (January 23, 2013 - Source: Rob Carr/Getty Images North America)

PHT’s Morning Skate takes a look around the world of hockey to see what’s happening and what we’ll be talking about around the NHL world and beyond.

Derick Brassard wasn’t happy with his performance on Saturday against the New York Islanders, but the Rangers forward has been working hard to bounce back tonight. (New York Newsday)

Hobey Baker winner Drew LeBlanc is hoping to play with the Chicago Blackhawks before the season ends. Coach Joel Quenneville isn’t making any promises. (CSN Chicago)

Nicklas Backstrom has played a big role in Alex Ovechkin’s recent success. (Washington Times)

It might be a painful experience, but Carolina Hurricanes coach Kirk Muller is trying to learn from his team’s struggles this season. (The News & Observer)

The Florida Panthers won’t make the playoffs, but they still have goals for their final seven games. (Panthers.nhl.com)

The New York Islanders certainly aren’t dismissing the Panthers as they get ready for tonight’s match. They know just how tough teams with little left to play for but their jobs can be. (New York Newsday)

Yesterday, the question in Edmonton was if Oilers GM Steve Tambellini should be fired. Today it’s if Craig MacTavish is the right man to replace him. (Edmonton Sun)

20-year-old forward Tobias Rieder has agreed to terms with the Phoenix Coyotes. (Coyotes.nhl.com)

Highlights from Chicago’s 5-2 victory against Dallas: