NEW YORK - Washington Capitals centre Nicklas Backstrom was named NHL rookie of the month on Thursday.

He led all rookies last month with 14 points (five goals, nine assists) in 13 games.

Backstrom edged Chicago Blackhawks forwards Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, Phoenix Coyotes centre Martin Hanzal and Atlanta Thrashers defenceman Tobia Enstrom for the award.

The 20-year-old native of Gavle, Sweden was the fourth player selected in the 2006 NHL entry draft.