What It Means:

Backstrom missed three games due to the ailment. Ultimately his time off might serve as a good rest ahead of the playoffs, but at the same time, returning now means that there's not much of a risk of him being rusty by the time Game 1 of the first round starts.

Backstrom has had an impressive season, recording 67 points (20 goals, 47 assists) in 73 games played, but he has been mediocre at driving possession. His Corsi For Percentage is 51.1, and his Relative Corsi For at Even Strength is 0.5. We currently give the Caps a 18.20 percent chance at winning the Stanley Cup this season, the highest of any team.