Overview

• Alex Ovechkin skated solo in a tracksuit before the Washington Capitals' practice, marking his first time on the ice since breaking his left fibula on November 18.
• The 39-year-old was initially expected to miss four to six weeks, but his early return to the ice suggests a promising recovery.
• Ovechkin was leading the NHL in goals with 15 in 18 games prior to his injury and is 27 goals away from breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time record of 894.
• Despite his absence, the Capitals have won four consecutive games and currently lead the Eastern Conference standings.
• Team officials have not provided an updated timeline for Ovechkin's return to play, though optimistic projections suggest late December or early January.