The Washington Capitals are gearing up for the 2024-25 season with hopes of leveraging the experience gained by their younger players to reclaim the Stanley Cup during the Alex Ovechkin era. After a disappointing exit in the playoffs against the Carolina Hurricanes, the team is assessing its roster for potential trades and retaining key players.

Ovechkin, who remains a formidable presence despite his age and recent injuries, is expected to stay on the team due to his no-movement clause and record-setting aspirations. Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, and Aliaksei Protas are also likely to remain as the Capitals look to solidify a core that can transition smoothly post-Ovechkin. The team’s top prospect, Ryan Leonard, adds to the optimism as he continues to develop. With a mix of veterans and emerging talent, the Capitals aim to refine their strategy and bolster their chances for a successful season.

The Washington Capitals faced a disappointing 5-2 defeat against the Carolina Hurricanes in Game 4, putting them on the brink of elimination with a 3-1 series deficit. Despite the loss, Alex Ovechkin scored his 77th career playoff goal, surpassing Mario Lemieux for 12th place on the all-time playoff goals list. This milestone came late in the game during a 5-on-3 power play, where Dylan Strome assisted Ovechkin's iconic shot from his usual spot in the left circle. Unfortunately for the Capitals, the Hurricanes quickly retaliated, with Sean Walker scoring shortly after Ovechkin's goal, and Andrei Svechnikov sealing the win with an empty-netter.

At nearly 40 years old, Alex Ovechkin continues to defy age, proving instrumental in leading the Washington Capitals to the second round of the NHL playoffs. His aggressive playstyle remains unmatched, showcasing his ability to land significant hits while also scoring crucial goals. Teammates like Tom Wilson and Dylan Strome have praised Ovechkin's energy and leadership, noting how he sets the tone for the team. His performance has drawn attention, especially following his historic achievement of surpassing Wayne Gretzky's career goals record.

Despite last season's disappointing playoff exit, where he failed to score against the New York Rangers, Ovechkin has bounced back with a fierce determination. He is recognized for his physical style, which is particularly effective in the high-stakes atmosphere of playoff hockey. With four goals in the first round, Ovechkin's consistent scoring has been a pivotal factor for the Capitals as they prepare to face the Carolina Hurricanes.

At nearly 40 years old, Alex Ovechkin continues to defy age, proving instrumental in leading the Washington Capitals to the second round of the NHL playoffs. His aggressive playstyle remains unmatched, showcasing his ability to land significant hits while also scoring crucial goals. Teammates like Tom Wilson and Dylan Strome have praised Ovechkin's energy and leadership, noting how he sets the tone for the team. His performance has drawn attention, especially following his historic achievement of surpassing Wayne Gretzky's career goals record.

Despite last season's disappointing playoff exit, where he failed to score against the New York Rangers, Ovechkin has bounced back with a fierce determination. He is recognized for his physical style, which is particularly effective in the high-stakes atmosphere of playoff hockey. With four goals in the first round, Ovechkin's consistent scoring has been a pivotal factor for the Capitals as they prepare to face the Carolina Hurricanes.