Backstrom out for Game 2 vs. Islanders

Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom will not play in Game 2 of the team's series against the New York Islanders on Friday, head coach Todd Reirden announced Thursday, according to Samantha Pell of The Washington Post.

"He is in protocol," Reirden said.

Backstrom exited Game 1 after taking a hard hit from Islanders captain Anders Lee early in the first period. Backstrom tried to play a few shifts after the collision but was ultimately unable to continue.

Anders Lee getting himself into the series early. Drops Nick Backstrom. pic.twitter.com/nrKPM1PmeS

- Rob Taub (@RTaub_) August 12, 2020

Lee was assessed a minor penalty for interference on the play.

After the game - a 4-2 win for New York - Reirden called Lee's hit on Backstrom "predatory."

Backstrom is in his 13th campaign with the Capitals and posted 54 points in 61 regular-season games in 2019-20. The 32-year-old has notched 107 points in 127 career playoff contests with Washington.

Game 2 is scheduled for 8:00 p.m. ET on Friday.

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