Capitals’ Oshie Sees Number Retired In Warroad: ‘The Most Special Place’

Washington Capitals captain T.J. Oshie returned to his roots on Saturday, as he made his way to Warroad, Minnesota to see his high school number raised to the rafters.

The Warroad Warriors retired 35-year-old’s No. 19 following Oshie’s historic tenure and continued success at the NHL level. Oshie also hit the links back home, and played some golf before heading to the ceremony.

“City of Warroad, this is the most special place for any kid to grow up,” Oshie said in the ceremony. “My only regret is that I didn’t come here until I was 15.”

Oshie was born in Everett, Washington before moving to Warroad, the namesake for his clothing brand. His father, Tim Oshie, was his long-time coach. Oshie honored him on Saturday, wearing a “Coach” hat along with his high school captain’s jersey. Oshie’s father passed away in 2021 after a battle with Alzheimer’s.

The St. Louis Blues ended up taking Oshie 24th overall in the 2005 NHL Draft, and after that, went on to play NCAA hockey at the University of North Dakota to continue his development. He ultimately played seven years in St. Louis before his trade to the Capitals in 2015.

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Oshie is entering his eighth season in D.C. and said he wants to retire with Washington, where he won the Stanley Cup in 2018. Through 900 NHL games, Oshie has dished 271 goals and 364 assists, and also brings a lot to the table as a beloved locker room presence and vocal leader.

Tom Wilson and more have referred to Oshie as the “ultimate teammate” and the “heartbeat” of the team. Given his on and off-ice impact in the District, it wouldn’t be surprising to see No. 77 hanging in the Capital One Arena rafters when all is said and done.