Even though he hasn’t played a game this season, TJ Oshie remains a big part of the Washington Capitals’ 2024-25 team, according to ESPN’s Emily Kaplan.
The Capitals forward, who is on long-term injured reserve, has found other ways to make his presence felt — though it may have increased Spencer Carbery’s phone bill in the process.
“TJ Oshie is still searching for answers and solutions for that chronic back issue,” Kaplan said during the second period of the Capitals-Flyers game that kicked off the Frozen Frenzy. “[Spencer Carbery] says ‘he’s texting me all the time, coming up with creative practice drills, giving me observations. TJ Oshie will be an excellent coach someday.'”
Whatever Oshie has suggested may have helped. The Capitals are winners of five straight after losing to the New Jersey Devils on on Opening Night, matching their longest win streak from last year within two weeks of their home opener.
Away from the rink, Oshie, a father of four, is active in his kids’ athletics outside of school. Lauren Oshie, his wife, frequently shares videos on her Instagram Story of TJ playing basketball or soccer with his daughters frequently giving them pointers.
He could be following in the footsteps of his father Tim, who played a major part in his development as a youth hockey player and earned the nickname Coach Osh.
While not texting Carbery, Oshie has kept himself busy in other ways. He made an appearance at Nicklas Backstrom’s Pucks & Putts event last week and recently golfed with Ryan Zimmerman to help support a UVA baseball event.
Oshie also attended Caps 50 Fest, helping the team celebrate its 50th anniversary season.
