Alexander Ovechkin has made headlines throughout his career for his scoring ability, but this season, his fitness transformation is stealing the spotlight. After a challenging offseason, the Washington Capitals captain started the season with 15 goals through his first 18 games.
Unfortunately, a lower-body injury has now put him on the shelf for just over a month, but, given his current shape, there are murmurs that he could return sooner than expected.
According to a well-placed source close to Ovechkin, much of that can be attributed to Ovechkin’s intense summer training.
A Summer of Change
Ovechkin spent part of his summer in Turkey with friends, enjoying a well-earned break. However, the time off came with consequences. According to a source close to the player, “Alex spent his summer vacation in Turkey with friends. When he returned to training, he weighed 117 kilograms (258 pounds).”
Despite the weight gain, Ovechkin’s unique physiology played a role in his remarkable turnaround. “Ovechkin has a unique metabolism, and in two or three months, he not only got himself into shape but also lost even more weight – to 102 kilograms (225 pounds),” the source explained to RG.
The transformation wasn’t left to chance.
“In addition, he consulted nutritionists. Alex trained a lot and brought his strength coach Pavel Burlachenko to Washington, who prepared him for the September training camp,” the source added.
Hard Work Pays Off
According to the source, “Ovechkin trained a lot,” embracing an intensive regimen that focused on conditioning and strength. His commitment was evident as he returned to the Capitals in better shape than he had been in years.
The results are clear: 15 goals in 18 games; while helping his team to maintain a strong start to the season demonstrated his ability to perform at an elite level, even as he enters the later stages of his career.
Ovechkin’s improved fitness hasn’t just enhanced his physical game but also enabled him to maintain his durability and consistency on the ice. He was a racehorse on the ice and looked as motivated as he was when he was chasing Rocket Richard trophies a decade ago.
Ironically, at the time of his injury, Ovechkin was the league-leader in goals.
Focused on the Future
Ovechkin’s efforts this offseason reflect his determination to remain a key contributor for the Capitals while continuing his pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record. Though the path to breaking 894 goals is still a significant challenge after his injury, Ovechkin looked like he was able to break the record this season.
Rather than resting on his accomplishments, Ovechkin has made it clear that he’s still committed to competing at the highest level. His transformation underscores the importance of preparation, discipline, and adaptability — qualities that have kept him among the NHL’s best for nearly two decades.
Once he returns to health, Ovechkin’s chase for history will be something to behold. Proving once again that even the game’s biggest legends must continuously evolve to stay at the top.
Sergey has been in sports journalism since 2007 as a reporter, editor, and manager. He has covered the Olympic Games, soccer World Cups, the World Cup of Hockey in 2016, the European championships, the Stanley Cup Finals, IOC events, and many others. Sergey interviewed the sport's greatest athletes, coaches, and executives. Since 2016, he has been an Independent Senior Editor of NHL.com/ru.
