ARLINGTON, Va. -- While Alex Ovechkin was busy hitting everything that moved in the Eastern Conference First Round against the Philadelphia Flyers, Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom was distinguishing himself in a different way.
Backstrom and the Capitals' first line were tasked with playing against the Flyers' top six; they finished the six-game series with four points combined.
Capitals' Backstrom tasked with slowing down Penguins
Center's improved defensive play will be tested against Crosby, Malkin in second round

© Patrick McDermott/Getty Images

© Greg Fiume/Getty Images