Capitals' Nicklas Backstrom: Strong effort overshadowed by loss

Backstrom chipped in a goal and a power-play assist Sunday, but it wasn't enough as the Capitals lost to the Blue Jackets, 3-2.

Analysis:

Backstrom didn't score at all in October, though he's up to five this month to complement 12 total assists, with seven of those helpers taking place on the man advantage. The Swede has produced at least 70 points in three straight seasons, and is on track to hit that plateau once again in 2016-17 -- health permitting, of course.