Capitals captain Alexander Ovechkin spent four months in Russia this summer. He picked up 33 violations. Reports note he had multiple issues with local authorities during that period. He returns September 10. He must get ready for the 2026-27 season.
Daily Faceoff put Ovechkin on its milestone watch list for the 2026-27 season. Connor McDavid and Brent Burns made the list too. All three could set records. They could accomplish things no player has previously accomplished. Meanwhile, The Hockey Writers expect the Capitals can fight their way to a Metropolitan Division title.