The Washington Capitals had three special guests at practice on Wednesday.
Nicklas Backstrom and TJ Oshie, both currently on long-term injured reserve, and former Capital Karl Alzner, now an analyst for Monumental Sports Network, attended the team’s skate at MedStar Capitals Iceplex — the team’s first full session since they split up for the 4 Nations Face-Off break.
Oshie and Alzner were seen briefly chatting with Tom Wilson and Charlie Lindgren before the current Caps stars walked into the locker room.
TJ Oshie and former Cap Karl Alzner both stopped by to watch practice today. pic.twitter.com/iOnrPcNfHz
— Katie Adler (@katieEadler) February 19, 2025
Capitals fan Brittany B. attended the skate and noticed Backstrom from afar.
Oh, hey! Nicklas Backstrom was at MedStar Capitals Iceplex for today's Capitals skate, too. He watched from afar and was seen chatting with Nic Dowd.
📽️: brittanyballenger/IG pic.twitter.com/mVzZH2Nm51
— Ian Oland (@ianoland) February 19, 2025
The Capitals’ all-time leader in assists chatted with Nic Dowd and signed autographs for a few fans before leaving the rink.
Backstrom has not played since October 29, 2023, due to a chronic hip issue, while Oshie has not suited up this season due to back problems. Both players are in the final years of their contracts. The Swedish centerman most recently jumped on the MCI ice to help Alex Ovechkin rehab his fractured fibula in December.
Nicklas Backstrom assists Alex Ovechkin on the ice as he recovers from fractured fibula
Backstrom and Oshie are both scheduled to attend Friday’s Stanley Cup championship plaque unveiling at Washington Harbour, where the team swam in fountains in 2018.
Capitals to unveil Stanley Cup championship plaque where Alex Ovechkin once swam in fountains
