Washington Capitals' forward T.J. Oshie announces retirement from hockey after 16 years

WASHINGTON (7News) — Washington Capitals forward T.J. Oshie has had a lengthy hockey career, but after roughly 16 years in the sport, he announced his retirement to a packed audience in D.C.'s Georgetown neighborhood on Monday.

The date of the announcement coincided with the anniversary of Oshie and several of his Capitals teammates swimming in the fountains just days after winning the franchise's first Stanley Cup on June 7, 2018.

Constant back problems made this decision much easier for Oshie. However, what a career for number 77.

He helped lead the Caps to their only Stanley Cup in 2018. Oshie, a fan favorite, is leaving a lasting legacy here in Washington.

7News Sports Director Scott Abraham spoke with Oshie after the ceremony.

"Every day I just wanted to bring everything I had and made sure my teammates knew that I was doing everything I could to help them win," Oshie told Abraham. "If that's what's remembered that's probably my highest honor."

It truly was a terrific turnout by Caps fans, showing their support for Oshie.

Even his good buddies like Nicklas Backstrom, John Carlson and Ryan Zimmerman were all in attendance for the ceremony.

Watch live here or in the media player below:

Oshie held back emotions when making the announcement. The long-time Capitals winger missed the entire 2024-25 season due to a back injury.

SEE ALSO | Capitals winger T.J. Oshie expected to go on long-term injured reserve with chronic issue

Oshie made the announcement shortly after 5:30 p.m., with a Q&A session with Joe Beninati and Craig Laughlin from Monumental Sports Network.