Screen cap: Twitter: @Capitals
Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin returned to the U.S. Wednesday morning after spending last week in his home country of Russia. Ovechkin was in Russia to tend to his ailing father, who passed away a week ago today.
Ovechkin said he rushed from the airport this morning and straight to the Capitals practice facility. He said he was eager to get back after last week. He was the first player on the ice for Capitals practice.
Alex Ovechkin back on the ice for Capitals practice today pic.twitter.com/KSg0VtKGUl
— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) February 22, 2023
Ovechkin met with the media following the team’s practice Wednesday afternoon.
“It was probably toughest situation I’ve been through my whole NHL career…it’s life and we move on. Thanks everybody for support back home and here,” he said.
Ovechkin was asked about his father’s impact on his life. “He give me everything, all his health, all his time. He travel with me all over the world and been at every practice when he have a chance.”
Ovechkin said that his mother and brother would probably come to the U.S. next month. “They’re gonna stay with me and my family. We try to do the best we can in that kind of hard moment.”
As for hockey, Ovechkin said he skated once while he was in Russia. He said he hadn’t had a chance to speak with Capitals head coach Peter Laviolette, but will later today about his schedule coming up.
“I just want to come back right away, put my mind in a different position. We’re struggling right now, so I want to try to do my best to bring the energy, bring something to the team.”
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The Capitals next host the Anaheim Ducks Thursday night at Capital One Arena. Puck drop is set for 7PM.