While it may be hard to believe, T.J. Oshie has been a member of the Washington Capitals for nearly seven years (acquired via trade in July 2015). Over that time he has entrenched himself as one of the team’s most important players, aiding the team in their run to the 2018 Stanley Cup and becoming an energizing presence on and off the ice.

Oshie, who is in his seventh season in the District, recently appeared on Your Morning Show podcast, and discussed a variety of topics, including the Stanley Cup victory, his biggest regret in his hockey career, and more.

Oshie, who was signed to an eight-year contract following the 2016-17 season, was an integral part of the Caps’ Stanley Cup victory, which was followed by a summer that included a memorable parade through the nation’s capital with thousands of fans.

“That was a super cool moment I think for everyone here, to celebrate with the fans. We felt like they were such a big part of what we had going on, what we still have going on here, and we were not afraid or shy to show them the celebration and have them be involved with it”.

As the home of the United States’ government, Washington D.C. can at times be quite a contentious environment. However, the “Summer of Ovi” kept the DMV’s attention fixated on their beloved Capitals and away from anything else.

“When we visited the White House, they actually said if we win again, we can go in the fountain on the White House grounds, I don’t know if that’s still standing now. But no, you know what, the city, and I’ve been here, I think this is my seventh or eighth year. Washington, D.C. is very divided on a lot of different subjects, and that was one time where it didn’t matter what side of politics you were on, where you lived. Everyone came together and it felt like one big family and there was so much joy on the streets. It was a really special experience for me, and the team, and the fans, everyone here was on cloud nine”.

Oshie has played in 444 games and counting with the Caps and has played in 887 games total in his impressive NHL career, which includes the 2018 Stanley Cup. During his time at Warroad High School, Oshie had a decorated career, which included two state championships.

“For me, it’s [his Stanley Cup ring] just stowed away. When I’m done or, we just got a new place in McLean, so I’ll probably find a nice spot for it where the kids can’t get to it, but for now she’s just stowed away. I take a look at her now and then when I need to get going. I actually got my state championship rings in my backpack that I bring to the rink everyday so my state championships are always with me.

Oshie’s performance at the 2014 Winter Olympics made him a national name, although the United States ultimately fell short of their quest for a gold medal. Despite his success throughout his hockey career, a national championship also eluded him during his career at the University of North Dakota, of which Oshie has expressed his deep love for in the past.

“Oh boy. I think Gold Medal would probably be up top but national championship is right there. My teammates at North Dakota, and really the alumni, the coaches, the staff, everyone there is a real tight family and I care very deeply about the guys I played with there. The Olympic medal is different because you’re wearing a Team USA sweater. I mean what better time to win a championship then when you’re representing your country. I’ll go Gold Medal, but probably my biggest regret is not winning a national championship at North Dakota”.

To hear the full interview, in which Oshie also discusses his love for hockey sticks, nostalgia of playing in Minnesota, and more, see the video below:

By Michael Fleetwood