Alex Ovechkin is set to make his return to the Washington Capitals after a significant injury layoff, as the team prepares to face the Toronto Maple Leafs. Currently, Ovechkin is 26 goals shy of breaking Wayne Gretzky's all-time record of 894 goals. The 39-year-old had an impressive start to the season, leading the league with 15 goals in just 18 games before suffering a fractured left fibula during a game against the Utah Hockey Club on November 18.
Despite Ovechkin's absence, the Capitals have continued to perform well, achieving a 10-5-1 record in the 16 games he missed. Under the guidance of head coach Spencer Carbery, the team has maintained a strong position in the Metropolitan Division, currently sitting second with 48 points, just behind the New Jersey Devils, who have 51 points but have played four more games.
Ovechkin's return is highly anticipated, as he is expected to resume his role on the right wing alongside Dylan Strome, who has been instrumental in Ovechkin's early-season success. Strome has assisted on many of Ovechkin's goals and leads the team with 27 assists and 38 points. Meanwhile, Connor McMichael has stepped up in Ovechkin's absence, taking the lead in team scoring with 16 goals, just ahead of Ovechkin.
