Alexander Ovechkin returns to the ice just two weeks after suffering a broken leg

Washington Capitals forward Alexander Ovechkin, aged 39, was observed skating on the ice ahead of practice, a remarkable development considering he sustained a fibula fracture just two weeks ago during a match against the Utah Hockey Club.

His early return to the ice prior to Tuesday's practice has taken many by surprise, indicating significant progress in his recovery process.

Ovechkin suffered the fibula injury following a collision with Jack McBain during the Capitals' 6-2 victory over Utah on November 18, a game in which he scored two goals. Initially, he was expected to be sidelined for four to six weeks due to the injury, making his presence on the ice even more astonishing to his teammates.

"I honestly don't think he's real," remarked Capitals center Pierre-Luc Dubois. "It's only been two weeks since he broke his leg, and here he is back on the ice. He's a machine. ... It's wonderful to see him back. He was thrilled when he left the ice, and we were all excited. This is a positive sign, a step in the right direction."

Ovechkin was on track to surpass Wayne Gretzky's all-time goal record this season, with some speculating he could achieve this milestone before the NHL trade deadline, given his impressive performance. He currently boasts 15 goals and 10 assists in 18 games this season.

The Capitals experienced losses in their first two games without Ovechkin but have since embarked on a four-game winning streak, the best in the NHL. The upcoming match against the San Jose Sharks will mark Ovechkin's seventh consecutive game missed, setting a new career high for the veteran player.