Nicklas Backstrom Admits His True Feelings on Leaving the League to Sign in Home Country

Nicklas Backstrom was a star in the NHL for a long time, but after departing the league, he's had nothing but good things to say about the Capitals and Brynas IF.

Over the weekend, it was revealed that long-time Washington Capitals centre Nicklas Backstrom is officially heading home to Sweden to sign with Brynas IF, 18 years after last playing for them before joining the National Hockey League.

Backstrom has dealt with plenty of health issues that have seen him miss the past two seasons, and unsurprisingly, at 37-years old, it meant more to him to return home than it did to potentially push for one last season in the NHL.

Now, the Stanley Cup winning centre has opened up on his decision in a press conference, having nothing but good things to say about his time in Washington, but clearly expressing his excitement about once more playing for Brynas IF.

I had an incredibly wonderful 18 years in Washington as a city and organization. They have been exemplary in everything, and of course, I have a lot to thank them for being here today.

I've always felt that I would like to represent Brynäs again someday if the opportunity arose. I've long had a great drive to return to Brynäs. After undergoing rehab and being away from the game for almost two seasons, I feel energized to contribute to the club's success.