Ovechkin Rested and Ready to Propel Capitals’ Playoff Push
Alex Ovechkin utilized the Washington Capitals’ break for the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026 to recharge. The 40-year-old forward enjoyed a vacation in Dubai with family and friends. He emphasized the importance of taking a step back from hockey. “You have to enjoy your time, spend time with the family,” Ovechkin stated.
Ovechkin’s Future with the Capitals
Ovechkin, the NHL record holder with 919 regular-season goals, is in the last year of a five-year, $47.5 million contract. Questions about his future beyond this season are prevalent, but he has yet to make a decision. “No, I don’t know yet,” he mentioned. Any decision regarding his future will likely occur after the season wraps up.
Playoff Aspirations
The Capitals are facing a crucial stretch with just 23 games left in the regular season. Their first game back is against the Philadelphia Flyers at Capital One Arena. Currently, Washington holds a record of 29 wins, 23 losses, and 7 overtime losses. They trail the Boston Bruins by four points for the second wild card spot in the Eastern Conference.
- Capitals’ current points: 29-23-7
- Points behind Boston Bruins: 4
- Games remaining: 23
Ovechkin pointed out that to reach the Stanley Cup Playoffs, the team needs to win nearly every remaining game. “We’re going to have to win almost every game to make the playoffs,” he explained.
Recent Team Performance
Before the break, the Capitals improved their performance, winning four of their last five games. This came after a challenging stretch where they went 7-13-4 over 24 games, dropping from the top of the Metropolitan Division to outside the playoff picture. Ovechkin acknowledged the pressure on the team.
Individual Performance
This season has seen Ovechkin experience ups and downs, mirroring his team’s performance. He has scored 22 goals and recorded 48 points in 59 games, ranking second on the team. However, he struggled before the break, going five games without a goal.
- Goals this season: 22
- Points this season: 48
- Games played: 59
Ovechkin reflects on his scoring consistency last season when he scored 44 goals in 65 games. He hopes the break will reinvigorate both him and his teammates as they approach the final stretch of the season. “I hope this break is going to help us,” he noted.
