Washington Capitals winger TJ Oshie is expected to be placed on long-term injured reserve this season with chronic back issues.
Oshie will be listed as injured at the start of camp after undergoing his physical, the Capitals said Wednesday.
He and the Capitals have left the door open to a possible return, although it may be unlikely.
“During the offseason, I explored long-term solutions for my injury,” Oshie said in a statement. “I remain committed to the process and am doing my best to return to full health.”
“In the meantime, I will continue to help and support my teammates and the organization in any way I can.”
Oshie, 37, said in late April that he hoped to continue playing if doctors found a permanent solution for his back.
Injuries, but not just to his back, limited Oshie to 52 games last season, 58 in 2022-23 and 44 in 2021-22.
“We will support TJ as he seeks a lasting solution to his recurring injury,” Capitals general manager Chris Patrick said.
“TJ is a vital member of our team. He continues to be an indispensable member of our leadership group.”
Oshie grew up in Washington state before moving to Minnesota as a teenager.
A member of the Capitals since the summer of 2015, he played his first seven seasons in the NHL with the St. Louis Blues.
At the 2014 Olympics, he scored four goals in six shootout chances, helping the United States beat Russia in the preliminary round.
In 2018, he scored eight goals and 21 points in 24 playoff games, helping Washington win the Stanley Cup.
Oshie has 302 goals and 695 points in the National League, in 1,010 games.