Washington Capitals forward Nicklas Backstrom did not play in Game 3 of the Eastern Conference final against the Tampa Bay Lightning because of a hand injury. This marks the fourth straight game he has missed. 

Backstrom missed most of the third period in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference semifinal series against the Pittsburgh Penguins and was held out for Game 6 as the Capitals clinched the series. 

In 11 playoff games so far this season, Backstrom has three goals and 10 assists for 13 points. The 30-year-old had 21 goals and 50 assists in the regular season. 

The Capitals have a 2-1 advantage in the series after losing to Tampa 4-2 at home on Tuesday night.