The Washington Capitals will be without longtime alternate captain T.J. Oshie when they take the ice for the first training camp practice on Thursday. The organization announced that the right winger would likely start the 2024-25 season on the long-term injury reserve.
Oshie has missed 92 games with injuries over the last three seasons with recurring back injuries that he said have left him “literally on the floor peeing in water bottles.”
The 37-year-old has repeatedly said he’d like to keep playing if his body allows. Otherwise, retirement would be on the table.
“I have used the offseason to explore and pursue long-term solutions for my injury,” he said in a statement on Wednesday after a preseason medical exam. “I remain committed to the process and am working and doing my best to regain total health. In the meantime, I will continue to help and support my teammates and the organization in any way I can.”
Placing Oshie on the long-term injury list would free up some financial flexibility for the Capitals — the team enters training camp about $10 million over the salary cap, according to PuckPedia.
“We will support and assist T.J. as he seeks a lasting solution for his recurring injury,” general manager Chris Patrick said. “T.J. is a vital member of our team and continues to be an indispensable member of the organization and leadership group.”
Oshie played his 1,000th game in a Capitals uniform last spring. The University of North Dakota product has recorded 385 points, including 192 goals, for Washington.
The Capitals open preseason play on Sunday against the Philadelphia Flyers.
• Liam Griffin can be reached at lgriffin@washingtontimes.com.
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