When the Washington Capitals lost Nicklas Backstrom to injury for most of a season, they were a different team. The elbow to Backstrom’s head from Rene Bourque devastated the team.

So on Monday, when Sabres defenseman Mike Weber went to slam Nicky’s head against the boards (he missed), Caps captain Alex Ovechkin would have none of it.

Ovi outta nowhere.

That’s how you stick up for a teammate.

Incredible leadership by #Caps Ovi, sticking up for Backstrom. Next up Wilson to settle score w/Weber — Alan May (@MayHockeyNBCS) March 16, 2015

Ovechkin was given a double minor for roughing. Weber, who dropped his gloves and threw actual punches, got only a single minor penalty. The Sabres scored on the resulting power play.

I’m sure Tom Wilson and Weber will have a meeting of the minds later.

Full RMNB Coverage of Caps at Sabres