New Concerns Emerge for Capitals' Playoff Run Involving Alex Ovechkin

The Washington Capitals tied their second round series with the Carolina Hurricanes at 1-1 with a win on Thursday night, but that doesn't mean there aren't any concerns with this team moving forward.

One of the biggest concerns for their fans is unfortunately Alex Ovechkin, who is tallying just 16 minutes of ice time a game thus far in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, which is on pace for a career low in the post-season for the Capitals captain.

At 40-years of age, it's not surprising, especially given everything that he went through this season, but at over two full minutes less than his previous career low, it's no wonder the offense has struggled through two games of this series.

In two games against Carolina, the Capitals have a total of 35 shots on goal, with four goals in those two matchups, and now with the series shifting back to the road, it must be a concern for the team.

At this point in time, it's uncertain if there's an injury issue to worry about for The Great 8, or if it's simply wear and tear and coach Spencer Carbery not wanting to wear him out too early, but it must be a concern.

Ultimately though, the Capitals are now 5-2 in the Stanley Cup Playoffs thus far behind a red-hot start from Logan Thompson, so while the concerns may arise again later in the playoffs, for now, the team appear determined to overcome and make a deep push for the Stanley Cup.