Quoting: JackSC87
Is Backstrom really done for the whole year?
Quoting: planter5
Wyd next year when he’s back?
No confirmation about anything any way yet. From what Backstrom, MacLellan, Lavi, and beat reporters have said though, I think there is a very good chance he at least misses all of the rest of the next regular season. Basically said that all options are on the table, but he can't do what he did this year. I think most people have taken that to mean another surgery, super long rehab, or LTIRetirement. Watching him play this year, especially in the playoffs, confirms that he can't skate anywhere close to 100% anymore. Would be really sad to see his career end like this, but would give the caps a crazy amount of room to work with this offseason, and would be better for his long-term health after hockey.
If he does go the surgery or long rehab route that just puts him out for the year, I think they will still use up all the cap space and figure it out when/if he comes back. Ovi isn't getting any younger, and there is a remarkably good set of players either available for trade or FA this year.
https://www.nbcsports.com/washington/capitals/nicklas-backstrom-headed-offseason-decisions-make-injured-hip