The Washington Capitals are hoping that center Nicklas Backstrom can return from injury as soon as Wednesday night against the Chicago Blackhawks. Backstrom was upgraded to a full practice participant last week and is now hoping to be able to rejoin the team after a lengthy absence. Backstrom has been skating separately from the team for probably the last month, so he should be close to game shape. His return also points to the fact that the Caps are in first place in the division despite not having their top center.
The KHL is negotiating with the NHL to host the Washington Capitals and Tampa Bay Lightning in Russia for a couple of exhibition games against their teams.