Photo: Washington Capitals

After a 2016-17 season that saw Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin score just 33 goals, General Manager Brian MacLellan made it clear that the soon-to-be 32-year old left wing (September 17) would need to change his conditioning and offseason training regimen. And through the first two days at training camp, Ovechkin has proven he has shown up with a purpose in mind. 

At the beginning of last season, Ovechkin was listed as weighing 239 pounds, per the Associated Press’ Stephen Wyno. At his weigh-in at the start of training camp, he was listed at 235 pounds. And the results of his offseason conditioning have not gone unnoticed by others within the organization. Multiple teammates. including right wing T.J. Oshie have commented on Ovechkin’s seemingly increased speed (he kept pace with the speedy Jay Beagle during skating drills).

Alex Ovechkin, previously listed at 239 pounds, is 235 on updated roster. https://t.co/KSchk50kKV

— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) September 16, 2017

Oshie: “I think Ovi realizes the game is getting faster and is adapting. He looks good, he looks focused.”

— Luke Adomanis (@LukeAdomanis) September 15, 2017

After losing several key players (both on offense and defense), the Capitals are expected by many to take a step back from their two consecutive President’s Trophy-winning  seasons. However, the team’s most important leader is optimistic about the team’s chances to win this season. In an effort to keep him refreshed for the playoffs and what they hoped would be a Stanley Cup run, Capitals head coach Barry Trotz reduced Ovechkin’s playing time last season, something that may have played a part in his goal decline. With the departures of top-six forwards Justin Williams and Marcus Johansson, the question now becomes whether Ovechkin will see his minutes increase. When asked whether that would be the case, Trotz responded by saying that he will wait until he knows his team before making such a decision.

Ovi: “We’re still good. We aren’t going to suck.”

— Luke Adomanis (@LukeAdomanis) September 15, 2017

Ovechkin has always been one of the league’s most passionate players when he plays, and through the first two days of training camp, he seems to have arrived back in Washington with a new purpose. MacLellan noted to the media that the superstar seems to be enjoying himself and is excited for the season. Whether it be his conditioning, a desire to (finally) win a Stanley Cup, or simply the prospect of a new season, it’s clear to fans, coaches, teammates, and management that the team’s franchise player is entering the 2017-18 season with a newfound purpose and sense of confidence.

By Michael Fleetwood