Nicklas Bäckström, born November 23, 1987, in Valbo, Sweden, is one of the NHL’s premier playmakers of the 21st century. Known for his vision, composure, and loyalty to the Washington Capitals, he became a franchise cornerstone during his 17-season NHL career. As of 2025, Bäckström is 37 years old and has embarked on a new chapter, returning to Sweden to play for his hometown team, Brynäs IF in the Swedish Hockey League (SHL).
Early Life and Path to the NHL
Bäckström was born into a family steeped in sports. His father, Anders Bäckström, played professional hockey, and his mother was a handball player. Nicklas began skating by the age of three and quickly excelled on the ice. He developed in the youth system of Brynäs IF, a club he would eventually return to later in his career.
After dominating the Swedish junior leagues and making an impact in the Swedish Hockey League at a young age, Bäckström caught the attention of NHL scouts. In the 2006 NHL Entry Draft, he was selected 4th overall by the Washington Capitals, setting the stage for a career that would redefine the franchise.
NHL Career: Capitals Icon
Bäckström made his NHL debut in the 2007–08 season and wasted no time making an impact. He scored his first goal in November 2007 and finished his rookie season with 69 points, placing second in Calder Trophy voting. His immediate chemistry with fellow superstar Alex Ovechkin became one of the most productive partnerships in NHL history.
Over 17 seasons with the Capitals, Bäckström recorded:
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1,105 games played
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263 goals
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737 assists
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1,000+ career points
He ranks first in franchise history in assists and second in total points, behind only Ovechkin. Bäckström was a five-time 60-assist performer, a feat matched by only 27 other players in NHL history. His vision and hockey IQ made him the engine of the Capitals’ offense for nearly two decades.
Stanley Cup Champion
The highlight of Bäckström’s career came in 2018, when the Capitals won their first-ever Stanley Cup. His 23 points in the postseason were crucial to Washington’s championship run, as he consistently set up Ovechkin, T.J. Oshie, and others with precision passes.
That title was the culmination of years of postseason heartbreak and cemented Bäckström’s legacy not just as a regular-season star, but as a clutch playoff performer.
International Success with Team Sweden
On the international stage, Bäckström has represented Sweden with distinction:
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IIHF World Championship Gold Medals: 2006, 2017
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Olympic Silver Medal: 2014 (Sochi)
His 2014 Olympic experience was clouded by a late doping controversy stemming from an allergy medication, but the suspension was later overturned and Bäckström received his silver medal after appeal.
Final Seasons and Hip Injury
Despite his continued excellence on the ice, Bäckström began dealing with chronic hip issues in the later stages of his career. In 2022, he underwent hip resurfacing surgery, a rare procedure for NHL players. While he made a brief return in 2023, lingering discomfort led him to step away from the Capitals just a few games into the season.
Although he never officially announced his retirement from the NHL, the move signaled the end of his North American career.
Return to Sweden with Brynäs IF
In July 2025, Bäckström signed with Brynäs IF, returning to the club where his professional journey began. The move marks an emotional homecoming, giving Swedish fans a final chance to see one of their greatest players compete on home ice.
He joins Brynäs with a one-year contract and a mutual option for a second season, signaling that his passion for hockey remains intact, even after a decorated NHL career.
Net Worth and Career Earnings
Throughout his NHL career, Bäckström was not only one of the most skilled centers in the league but also one of its highest earners.
Major Contracts:
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Entry-Level Contract: ~$7.2 million over 3 years
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10-Year Extension (2010): $67 million
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5-Year Deal (2020): $46 million (negotiated without an agent)
By negotiating his own final contract, Bäckström saved significantly on agent fees, a testament to his intelligence and composure off the ice.
Estimated Net Worth:
As of 2025, Nicklas Bäckström’s net worth is estimated at $50 million. His wealth comes primarily from:
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NHL salary (career earnings of over $110 million)
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Endorsements
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Swedish real estate and investment ventures
He is known for living modestly and for making careful, long-term financial decisions throughout his career.
Legacy: The Quiet Architect of Washington’s Success
Nicklas Bäckström may never have been the flashiest player on the ice, but few were more consistent, unselfish, or effective. His legacy is built not on highlight-reel goals but on elite playmaking, perfect positioning, and game-changing assists.
He assisted on over 279 goals scored by Alex Ovechkin, more than any other teammate, and was often the quiet conductor behind Washington’s offensive machine.
He finishes his NHL career (at least for now) as:
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Capitals’ all-time assist leader
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2nd in franchise scoring history
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1 of just 93 NHL players to reach 1,000 points with one team
His longevity, loyalty, and leadership have made him one of the most respected figures in Capitals history.
Quick Facts
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Full Name: Nicklas Bäckström
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Born: November 23, 1987
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Hometown: Valbo, Sweden
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Height: 6 ft 0 in (183 cm)
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Weight: 214 lbs (97 kg)
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Position: Center
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Shoots: Left
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NHL Team: Washington Capitals (2007–2023)
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Current Team: Brynäs IF (SHL)
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Net Worth: ~$50 million
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Stanley Cup Titles: 1 (2018)
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International Medals: Olympic silver (2014), World Championship gold (2006, 2017)
Final Thoughts
Nicklas Bäckström’s story is one of dedication, finesse, and quiet greatness. While Alex Ovechkin provided the firepower, Bäckström was the steady hand that kept the Capitals’ engine running. With over 1,000 NHL points and a Stanley Cup championship, his contributions to hockey are unquestioned.
Now returning to his roots in Sweden, Bäckström is closing his career with the same grace and humility that defined his time in the NHL—a true ambassador for the sport both on and off the ice.
