Niklas Backstrom will start between the pipes Monday against the Panthers, Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Backstrom will start between the pipes Monday against the Panthers, Michael Russo of the Minneapolis Star Tribune reports.

Analysis:

The veteran netminder has dealt with a few injuries in recent years, which have resulted in him being relegated to the backup role behind Darcy Kuemper. Backstrom is 2-2-0 on the season, but his .890 save percentage leaves a lot to be desired.