In 17 seasons playing together, Backstrom has assisted on 279 of Ovechkin’s 868 regular season goals. Backstrom himself is in the process of returning from injury, currently on long-term injured reserve. He has not played since October 2023 when he took a leave of absence due to his resurfaced hip injury.

Ovechkin was on the ice for skating work ahead of practice and working with teammate Nicklas Backstrom, who was in a tracksuit. The two shared a hug at the end of the session. The Russian also worked with pucks for the first time, taking passes from Backstrom for one-timers.

Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin has been out since Nov. 18 with a fractured left fibula. Here's the latest on his injury.