Nicklas Backstrom (upper body) participated in Monday's practice, Isabelle Khurshudyan of The Washington Post reports.

Backstrom (upper body) participated in Monday's practice, Isabelle Khurshudyan of The Washington Post reports.

Analysis:

Backstrom has missed the last two games with the ailment but was taking rushes on different lines in Monday's practice. It remains unclear if he will dress for Tuesday's contest against the Islanders, but his presence on the ice is a good sign that he will be available in time for the playoffs. Marcus Johansson should continue to occupy Backstrom's place on the top line alongside Alex Ovechkin in the interim.