Capitals C Backstrom earns rookie honors

Jan 3, 2008 - 11:59 PM NEW YORK (Ticker) -- Nicklas Backstrom played an integral role in the Washington Capitals' recent success. He was not overlooked by the NHL.

The 20-year-old center was named the league's Rookie of the Month for December on Thursday after leading all first-year players with 14 points in 13 games as the Capitals posted their best month on a points percentage basis since February 2001.

Backstrom edged Chicago Blackhawks linemates Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, Phoenix Coyotes center Martin Hanzal and Atlanta Thrashers defenseman Tobias Enstrom for the honor.

The fourth overall pick in 2006, Backstrom recorded five goals and nine assists while notching multiple points in five contests. He also registered three-point performances in victories over the Thrashers on December 8 and the Ottawa Senators on December 29.

After posting just nine points in the first 21 games of his NHL career, Backstrom has seven goals and 22 assists for 29 points, which ranks third on the Capitals and among NHL rookies.

A native of Gavle, Sweden, Backstrom represented his homeland in two World Championships and two World Junior Championships. He also was the leading scorer for Brynas of the Swedish Elite League each of the past two seasons.

Washington (16-19-5) finished the month with a 7-3-3 record and currently trails the Southeast Division-leading Carolina Hurricanes by seven points.