Alex Ovechkin injury update: Washington Capitals captain expected back soon despite training camp absence

Alex Ovechkin gave Washington Capitals fans a scare after leaving Thursday’s practice early and missing Friday’s skate with a lower-body issue. However, the NHL’s all-time leading goal-scorer is not believed to be dealing with a serious injury.

Head coach Spencer Carbery reassured that the 40-year-old star is expected to return soon, and early projections still place him on Washington’s top line ahead of opening night.

Alex Ovechkin’s lower-body injury seen as minor by Washington Capitals coaching staff during training camp

Despite Ovechkin’s absence from training camp sessions, Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery told reporters that the situation does not suggest an extended absence. The veteran forward, who already holds the league’s all-time goals record, is being managed cautiously to ensure he’s fully ready for the regular season.

According to Monumental Sports Network’s Tarik El-Bashir, Ovechkin remains projected as a first-line winger when he rejoins practice.

The team has not specified whether the lower-body issue is connected to last season’s fractured left fibula, which sidelined him for 16 games. Still, all indications point toward the injury being far less severe, with Washington focused on preserving its captain’s health for the long grind ahead.

Ovechkin closing in on NHL records ahead of Washington Capitals 2025 season opener

The Capitals are preparing for their season opener on October 8, and signs remain positive that Ovechkin will be in the lineup. His return would not only provide Washington with its most dangerous offensive weapon but also push him closer to historic personal milestones. Ovechkin sits just three goals away from becoming the first player to reach 900 career goals and is nine games short of the 1,500 mark.With those records within reach, every appearance carries significance for the future Hall of Famer.

Washington will rely on his scoring ability to anchor an offense that continues to transition under Carbery’s system. Ovechkin’s health and availability remain central to the Capitals’ hopes of competing in the Metropolitan Division.While any injury involving Alex Ovechkin raises eyebrows across the league, current updates indicate the Washington Capitals’ captain is not expected to miss significant time. His recovery appears to be precautionary, with both the team and coaching staff confident about his readiness for opening night. As Ovechkin closes in on two major milestones, his return to the ice will be eagerly anticipated by fans and teammates alike.Also Read: New York Rangers linked to Minnesota Wild’s Kirill Kaprizov as Artemi Panarin’s future remains uncertain