Backstrom returns to lineup for Game 4 vs. Lightning

Washington Capitals forward Nicklas Backstrom returned to the lineup for Game 4 against the Tampa Bay Lightning on Thursday after missing his club's last four games with a hand injury.

Backstrom had not played since Game 5 of the Capitals' second-round series against the Pittsburgh Penguins. With Backstrom back in the fold, forward Alex Chiasson was made a scratch.

Despite missing arguably their top center, the Capitals have gone 3-1 without Backstrom in the lineup, with Tuesday's 4-2 loss to the Lightning in Game 3 serving as the lone blemish.

In 11 games this postseason, Backstrom has three goals and 13 points. It's good enough for fourth in team scoring.