Nicklas Backstrom Returns to Sweden to Rekindle His Career
After nearly two years away from competitive hockey, Nicklas Backstrom is making a homecoming that many fans in Sweden have long hoped for. The 37-year-old veteran forward, best known for his incredible career with the Washington Capitals, has officially signed with Brynäs IF — the very team where his hockey journey began.
Backstrom, who spent his entire NHL career in Washington, had been sidelined by serious hip issues. In 2022, he underwent a complex left hip resurfacing surgery, which allowed him to briefly return in early 2023. But by October that year, just eight games into the season, he stepped away from the game once again to focus on recovery. Since then, he hasn’t appeared in any professional games — until now.
Now fully committed and energized, Backstrom signed a one-year deal with an additional one-year option to play for Brynäs IF in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL). It's a full-circle moment, as this is the club where he played from the age of 13 up until he made his NHL debut in 2007.
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In his own words, he shared that returning to Brynäs has always been a goal. “I’ve always felt I’d like to come back and represent Brynäs if the opportunity came up,” he said. “After nearly two seasons away and all the rehab, I feel recharged and ready to help push the club toward success again.”
From the club’s side, this is not just a signing — it’s a reunion with a hometown hero. Brynäs sports director Johan Alcén expressed both pride and excitement. He emphasized that Backstrom’s leadership and professionalism off the ice are just as valuable as his skill on it. His presence is expected to inspire both young players and fans alike.
Backstrom’s NHL resume is nothing short of legendary: 271 goals, 762 assists, and a total of 1,033 points over 1,105 games. He remains the Capitals’ all-time leader in assists and ranks near the top in nearly every major offensive category. Of course, his crowning NHL achievement was helping lead Washington to its first-ever Stanley Cup in 2018.
He also enjoyed a distinguished international career with Team Sweden, winning two World Championship gold medals and representing his country at the Olympics and World Cup of Hockey.
This move isn’t just about playing again — it’s about returning to where it all started, to give back, and to be part of something meaningful. For Backstrom, Brynäs isn’t just a team — it’s home.
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