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Caps’ Backstrom leaves game after being struck by Green shot

Nicklas Backstrom

Washington’s 3-1 loss to Ottawa tonight may have been more destructive than just hurting their hold on the Southeast Division.

Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom did not take a shift from the mid-point of the third period on and the team announced he would not return to the game with an upper body injury. On his last shift of the game, he was struck in the arm by a shot from teammate Mike Green.

After the game, Caps coach Adam Oates said they would reevaluate Backstrom on Friday, meanwhile Green says he hopes Backstrom is all right.

“It caught him in the arm. He’s alright but definitely gave him a bruise so I hope everything’s ok,” Green said.

If Backstrom is hurt more seriously than is being let on, it’s a huge blow. He’s been their top playmaker this season and is second only to Alex Ovechkin on the team in points. While Ovechkin’s done it with goals, Backstrom is all about the assists with 38 of his 44 points coming on helpers.