Capitals don’t know what to expect as Alex Ovechkin begins NHL farewell tour at Lenovo Center against Hurricanes

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin begins his NHL farewell tour on Tuesday against the Carolina Hurricanes at Lenovo Center. After announcing that the 2026-27 season will be his last, Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery and teammate Dylan Strome admitted they do not know what kind of reception or tribute to expect from opposing teams during his final visits to away arenas.

Carolina marks the first stop of the tour, with the next road finale coming on October 29 against Nashville. Ovechkin has recorded 111 points in 97 career games against the Hurricanes, more than against any other NHL franchise. Strome noted that while the early timing might lead to a subdued celebration, Ovechkin deserves significant recognition.