In 17 seasons playing together, Backstrom has assisted on 279 of Ovechkin’s 868 regular season goals. Backstrom himself is in the process of returning from injury, currently on long-term injured reserve. He has not played since October 2023 when he took a leave of absence due to his resurfaced hip injury.

The Capitals led the Eastern Conference when Ovechkin got injured Nov. 18, and they remain atop the conference more than three weeks into his absence.

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals continue to get positive news on the Alex Ovechkin front, as his recovery from a broken leg continues to trend in the irght direction. Ovechkin skated again on his own ahead of practice, donning a blue non-contact jersey and full gear while working without a puck.

Teammate Nicklas Backstrom, currently on long-term injured reserve for a nagging hip problem, joined him in his natural spot: Serving up passes for Ovechkin to slap shots from his "office," also known as the left faceoff circle.

Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin has been out since Nov. 18 with a fractured left fibula. Here's the latest on his injury.

Ovechkin was on the ice for skating work ahead of practice and working with teammate Nicklas Backstrom, who was in a tracksuit. The two shared a hug at the end of the session. The Russian also worked with pucks for the first time,