From butt-slashes to whatever this is, Washington Capitals players have very elaborate and bizarre routines to get ready for games.

Now, via video from @JayAndDan, we learn that John Carlson gives Alex Ovechkin cup checks.

Let me set the scene. Before the Jets game, Caps players are waiting in the tunnel of Bell MTS Place. Ovechkin is standing by Carlson and readying himself for some pain. The Caps defenseman then delivers three whacks of his stick to Ovechkin’s groin. The Russian machine, clearly uncomfortable at the end, begins laughing.

I want to attach some logic to this, but I’m struggling. Maybe Ovechkin wants to make sure all his gear is properly in place? Or maybe he just wanted to show Carlson just how tough he really is? I suspect the reasoning is even dumber though. YOLO.

But that wasn’t it. Ovechkin also engages in a very physical handshake that includes chest bumps with TJ Oshie.

Oshie moves up the line and does a fancy handshake with Devante Smith-Pelly too.

I love how Braden Holtby is completely oblivious to everything going on because he’s in the Goalie Zone.

Here’s the full video.

The #Caps have some interesting pre-game rituals. #JayAndDan pic.twitter.com/fkRy5Gae9P

— #JayAndDan (@JayAndDan) February 15, 2018

TSN also showed off a complicated handshake Christian Djoos and Madison Bowey do as well.

So yes, I can confirm our favorite adult hockey players are actually large children.