ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Nicklas Backstrom’s contract is another long-term investment for the Washington Capitals: 10 years, $67 million.
The Capitals announced their new deal with Swedish center on Monday, a reward after a season in which he set career-highs with 33 goals and 68 assists. The 101 points ranked fourth in the NHL.
Backstrom’s contract means the Capitals have locked up two of the league’s young stars for many years to come. Alex Ovechkin is about to enter the third year of a $124 million, 13-year deal.
The 22-year-old Backstrom has yet to miss a game over three NHL seasons. He had been scheduled to become a restricted free agent in July.
