In today's episode of the Locked On Capitals podcast, we open with the emotional news that longtime Capitals center Nicklas Backstrom is officially heading back to Sweden to play for Brynäs IF. After a storied NHL career spent entirely with Washington, including a Stanley Cup in 2018 and over a thousand games, Backstrom’s decision marks the end of an era. We reflect on his legacy, from his incredible chemistry with Ovechkin to the leadership he brought on and off the ice.

Then we pivot to Ovi himself. Will this really be his final NHL season? Despite the speculation, Dylan Strome isn't convinced, and neither are we. We break down what’s at stake as the Great 8 skates into 2025–26 with 897 career goals and eyes still set on pushing that record even further. Finally, we round things out with Tom Wilson’s Olympic aspirations and his potential role with Team Canada in 2026. Big emotions, big names, and big questions for the Washington Capitals.

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