Alex Ovechkin Returns to Ice Two Weeks After Leg Fracture

The Capitals' captain skated lightly ahead of practice, defying expectations for his recovery timeline.

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.