I thought people were saying Backstrom looked good and could even be the 1C with Ovechkin. What happened?

This does not look like a playoff team to me. Very bubblelicious.

I would actually have the center depth go Backstrom - Kuznetsov - Strome, but they’ve all played at a very comparable level. They all fit in perfect in their respective lines. All of them are playing at a high level.

They’re missing one more top 6 winger IMO but when Pacioretty comes back, they might be one of the most surprising teams. Backstrom looks better than he did even before his surgery. Kuznetsov looks fantastic between McMichael and Wilson. Milano has taken another step offensively. Matthew Phillips is forcing his way onto the opening night roster.

This team could very well miss the playoffs given the strength of the top of the division, but I wouldn’t count them out. I’d imagine they’re playing meaningful games into late March and April.

Totally agree on your center center depth lineup.

Strome is still their best center. HCSC has said that Ovi and Backstrom are together to learn the new systems with a familiar playing partner, I feel like it's temporary. Also the Caps center depth up with some of the best in the league. The gap between Stome Backy and Kuzy isn't really that much