Washington Capitals’ key player, Alex Ovechkin, is “getting real close” to making his comeback after suffering a fractured left fibula that has sidelined him since mid-November.

Ovechkin, who is on the hunt for Wayne Gretzky’s NHL career goal record, donned a non-contact jersey at Thursday’s team practice, indicating he is intensifying his rehabilitation. Coach Spencer Carbery suggested that Ovechkin’s return to the game could be imminent.

Carbery informed the media that Ovechkin would miss Friday’s game since he hasn’t yet been cleared for contact. However, there is a chance he could participate before the league’s holiday break next week.

“We’ll evaluate the next 48 hours to see if there’s a possibility of him playing in one of the games, either against LA on Sunday at home or on the road against Boston on Monday,” Carbery mentioned.

If Ovechkin receives clearance for contact, participates in some resistance drills on Friday, and completes a full practice on Saturday, his return could be feasible.

“I’m not going to give a specific percentage, but he’s getting real close,” he stated.

The Capitals had initially estimated that Ovechkin would be out for four to six weeks, so a return by Sunday or Monday would align with that timeline.

Here’s the latest information regarding Alex Ovechkin’s injury:

When Did Alex Ovechkin Get Injured?

Ovechkin sustained his injury due to an accidental leg-on-leg collision with Utah Hockey Club’s defenseman Jack McBain during a game on November 18. He was diagnosed with a fractured leg three days later and was projected to be out for four to six weeks.

What Is Alex Ovechkin’s Rehab Progress?

Beginning on December 2, he has been gradually working towards returning. Initially, he skated lightly in a track suit, then increased the intensity of his on-ice training, and has since joined the team for non-contact drills. Ovechkin also traveled with the team during a recent two-game road trip. Before he can play in a game, he must participate in a full-contact practice.

How Many Games Has Alex Ovechkin Missed?

Ovechkin has been absent for 13 games, with Friday’s matchup marking the 14th. The Capitals lost their first two games without him but then managed an impressive record of 8-0-1 before losing their last two, resulting in an overall record of 8-4-1 without him.

How Many Goals Has Alex Ovechkin Scored?

Ovechkin currently boasts 868 career goals, leaving him just 27 goals away from breaking Gretzky’s long-standing record of 894, established in 1999.

He was on a scoring spree prior to his injury, netting 15 goals in 18 games and hitting five goals in just two games before getting hurt.