Rob Gray-Imagn Images

Alex Ovechkin Returns Tonight as Capitals Face Maple Leafs

Originally posted on NHL Trade Talk | By Jim Parsons | Last updated Dec 28, 2024 12:47 PM ET

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin will make his highly anticipated return to the lineup tonight against the Toronto Maple Leafs after missing 16 games with a fractured fibula. The 38-year-old superstar was sidelined for five weeks following an injury sustained on November 18, 2024, temporarily halting his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time NHL goal-scoring record.

Before his injury, Ovechkin was on fire offensively, leading the league with 15 goals in 18 games and pushing his career total to 868—just 27 shy of surpassing Gretzky’s record of 894. His Capitals were also on a tear, leading the Metropolitan Division and surprising many with how well they were playing. The timing of his injury couldn’t have been worse.

His return adds extra excitement to tonight’s matchup, given the marquee nature of a game versus the Maple Leafs.

Capitals Remain Hot and Ovechkin’s Return Could Spark Team

The Capitals have performed well in Ovechkin’s absence, posting a 4-2-1 record and staying right near the top of their division. Washington will look to get energy from his return and momentum in the playoff race.

Fans are eager to see if Ovechkin can quickly regain his scoring touch, with some even predicting a hat trick in his first game back. Known for his resilience, Ovechkin’s return after a 40-day layoff highlights his determination to lead the Capitals and continue chasing NHL history.

Tonight’s game at Scotiabank Arena not only marks Ovechkin’s comeback but also sets the stage for another chapter in his pursuit of Gretzky’s legendary milestone. The Maple Leafs are still without Auston Matthews who was ruled out of Friday’s game and is not expected to play Saturday.

The puck drop is set for 7:00 PM EST.

This article first appeared on NHL Trade Talk and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: