Ovechkin, Wideman named NHL All Stars, Backstrom snubbed

The NHL officially released the NHL Roster.  Congratulations to Alexander Ovechkin and Dennis Wideman on their nods as NHL All Stars.

Unfortunately, Nicklas Backstrom did not get the nod to the All Star team.  One could easily argue that Backstrom may have deserved the nod over the Great 8.  Backstrom leads the Washington Capitals roster with 42 points (13G, 29A) .  Backstrom is 13th overall in scoring in the NHL and 6th overall in assists. To some analysts, Backstrom has been one of the NHL's best performers this season.  Backstrom has missed the last three games after being elbowed tot he head by Calgary's Rene Bourque, who received a five game suspension.   Backstrom's All Star problem is the fact it is tough to make the roster as a Centerman.   Representing the Eastern Conference at Center are Ottawa's Jason Spezza, Pittsburgh's Evgeni Malkin, Boston's Tyler Sequin, Tampa Bay's Steven Stamkos, Isles' John Tavares, and Philadelphia's Claude Giroux.

Ovechkin will make his 5th NHL All Star appearance.  Ovechkin has suffered from a off-year, to his standards.  In 41 games, Ovi has 33 points (17G, 16A) and a stunning -8 rating.  Hardly All Star numbers.  Ovi likely gets the nod based on popularity and draw for the NHL.

Dennis Wideman gets a well deserved nod.  He has taken over the offensive defensive role that Mike Green once occupied in Washington.  Greenie has missed 26 games from injury this season.  Wideman is third overall on the Washington roster in total points, scoring 8 goals and adding 21 assists.  Fourth of the eight Wideman goals have come on the man advantage.

You can check out the full All Star rosters right here.