The Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin is on the verge of returning to the ice, as he took significant steps forward during practices following his injury. The 39-year-old superstar has been out since November 18 due to a fracture of his left fibula sustained during a collision with Utah Hockey Club defenseman Jack McBain. This unfortunate injury has sidelined Ovechkin for 11 games, including the Capitals’ recent triumph against the Buffalo Sabres.
Last week proved pivotal when Ovechkin participated for the first time since his injury, joined by his teammates during Saturday’s practice wearing a no-contact jersey. According to reports from The Hockey News, Ovechkin engaged in several skill drills with Capitals coach Kenny McCudden before briefly participating in the morning skate. Although he did not finish the entire session, this marked his most intensive on-ice activity since the injury, as he had previously skated alone and performed individual drills.
“It’s another step,” commented Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery after the practice. “I wouldn't start to put targets or setting projective dates of a return. I just think it's another step.” Ovechkin's recovery was initially projected to take four to six weeks, estimating his return date between December 19 and January 2. With his increasing participation, earlier possibilities for his return are now being considered.
Captain Ovechkin's perseverance has been commendable, especially as the Capitals have managed to keep their momentum going without him. The team’s record during his absence stands at 8-2-1, pushing them to the top of the Eastern Conference. They are just one point behind the Winnipeg Jets as they vie for the Presidents’ Trophy, which recognizes the best team throughout the NHL's regular season.
Despite missing several games, Ovechkin's quest for Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal-scoring record remains intact. He has scored 15 goals this season, bringing his career total to 868. This puts him just 26 goals shy of Gretzky's remarkable record of 894. If Ovechkin can manage to return before the holiday break, he will have plenty of games left to pursue this historic milestone.
“Morning skate underway for the Capitals,” noted Capitals beat reporter Sammi Silber on her X account, emphasizing Ovechkin's return to team activities. Just weeks after his injury, it’s apparent his dedication and the support of the medical team are aiding his swift recovery. This is exciting news, especially considering the pace he set prior to his injury; he was on track to achieve remarkable scoring numbers.
The Capitals have demonstrated their resilience throughout this period. Players like Dylan Strome, Aleksei Protas, and Tom Wilson have stepped up, helping to fill the void left by the captain's absence. Their performance keeps the team competitive within the Eastern Conference, and the confidence surrounding the roster appears to have shifted positively, reminiscent of their championship-winning 2018 team.
Should Ovechkin return within the next five games, as some speculate, he could potentially have up to 49 regular season games remaining to chase history. Fans and teammates alike are eagerly waiting to see if the historic goal scorer can add to his tally and continue his pursuit of Gretzky's record.
Whether Ovechkin will accompany the team on their upcoming two-game road trip to Dallas and Chicago remains uncertain, as head coach Carbery stated, "it has not yet been determined." This possibility will be assessed as the team continues its practice and evaluates Ovechkin's readiness.
What remains clear is the integral role Ovechkin plays for the Capitals, not only as the captain but as one of the most prolific goal-scorers the NHL has ever seen. His impending return is highly anticipated by the fans, the team, and the league as they all recognize the impact he brings on and off the ice.
With the Capitals poised to maintain their position at the top of the standings, Ovechkin's comeback will only serve to strengthen their chances as they progress through the season—with every game bringing him closer to overtaking yet another hockey legend.
