ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Washington Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom says he doesn't have a concussion and is ready for the start of the truncated NHL season.

Backstrom was back on the ice for an informal skate at the Capitals' facility Friday after visiting a specialist in Michigan.

The team's top center missed 40 games with a concussion last season, and there was concern he had suffered another one last month when he took a hit while playing in Russia during the lockout.

Backstrom said the specialist found "nothing serious" — mainly stiffness in the neck.

He smiled as he said: "No concussion — so we can all be calm."

The Capitals plan to open training camp Sunday, once the players have approved the new collective bargaining agreement.