Washington Capitals’ captain Alexander Ovechkin was once again a holdout from the team’s practice on Monday, but he did do some minor skating following the team’s annual team photo. Ovechkin was listed “day-to-day” last Friday with a lower body injury that he sustained in the third period of the Capitals first game with the Islanders on Thursday.
Alex Ovechkin (lower-body) not participating in practice today but was on the ice doing a little skating around after the team photo.
Justin Schultz (lower-body) is on the ice for practice. In a non-contact jersey. He was hurt last Sunday in BOS.
— Samantha Pell (@SamanthaJPell) April 26, 2021
Ovechkin appeared to pull-up (right leg) as he rushed the puck through the neutral zone with 2:49 remaining in regulation. Ovechkin dumped the puck and veered towards the Capitals bench as soon he crossed the blueline. He didn’t skate in the subsequent overtime period, but remained on the bench.
Ovechkin didn’t participate in the Capitals optional skate last Friday and missed the team’s morning skate and missed the second game against the Islanders on Saturday.
Capitals bench boss Peter Laviolette was asked about the status of Ovechkin during his weekly appearance on Junks Radio Monday morning. He didn’t think the injury was anything long term.
“I don’t think it’s that big of a deal, where people should be wondering if he’s going to be in the playoffs or not, I don’t think it’s that,” said Laviolette. “I don’t think it’s anything long term. I’m not sure if he’ll be there tomorrow. I don’t think anybody needs to start getting worried about the playoffs or anything like that. I don’t think.”
On a side note, Ovechkin’s wife Nastya posted a video Sunday night of Alex and his sons Sergei and Ilya spending time together in the family’s home gym. Ovechkin can be seen flexing both legs with rather ease.
No days off for Sergei Ovechkin. 😁😂 Papa seems to be moving ok, as well. 🙏🤞 #ALLCAPS (🎥@nastyashubskya) pic.twitter.com/VyNTAXX08N
— NoVa Caps (@NoVa_Caps) April 26, 2021
The Capitals complete their season series with the Islanders on Tuesday at Capital One Arena. Fans will be attending the game for the first time since March, 2020. Puck drop is scheduled for 7:00 PM.
By Jon Sorensen
Follow @nova_caps
