Washington Capitals head coach Peter Laviolette announced prior to Tuesday’s game against the New York Rangers at Madison Square Garden (7 PM ET, ESPN, ESPN+, Disney Channel) that captain Alex Ovechkin will be a game-time decision due to a lower-body injury.

The 37-year-old missed four games last month due to the death of his father.

Ovechkin leads Washington in goals (36) and points (62) in 62 games this season.

Left-wing Sonny Milano, who has 10 goals and 29 points in 54 outings, will be unavailable due to a non COVID-19-related illness.

Left-wing Joe Snively was recalled from the AHL’s Hershey Bears prior to the game and will take Ovechkin’s spot if necessary. Center Aliaksei Protas will draw in for Milano.

Goaltender Darcy Kuemper will start in goal on Tuesday.

Washington will also play Wednesday against the Buffalo Sabres.

By Harrison Brown