Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom Steps Away from Team Due to Health Issues After Hip Surgery

All-time assists leader for the Washington Capitals, Nicklas Backstrom, decides to focus on his health after struggling to regain form post-hip surgery; has only played 47 games since operation in 2022.

Nicklas Backstrom, the Washington Capitals' alternate captain and all-time assists leader, is stepping away from the team due to health issues linked to a hip surgery he underwent in June 2022.
Backstrom has been struggling with hip issues since 2015, which have intensified with age. His post-surgery performance has not been optimal, having played only 47 games since mid-2022 and recording just one assist in the current season.
Despite a hopeful outlook at the start of the season, with Backstrom declaring that he felt '100 percent' healthy, the hip problems persist, prompting his decision to prioritise his health.
A highly decorated player, Backstrom has had a distinguished career with the Capitals. His record includes 762 assists, second-most games played in team history and crucial contributions to their 2017-18 Stanley Cup win.
The team is supportive of Backstrom's decision, with Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan affirming the organisation's backing for the player throughout his health evaluation process.