Sammi’s Daily: Ovechkin, Capitals Updates, Vanecek Befriends Bird Living In Arena

The Washington Capitals are back in action on Tuesday as they close out a three-game road trip against the Colorado Avalanche, and they hope to have Alex Ovechkin back in the lineup for it.

As they continue their push, other news and headlines continue to brew across the league.

Here are all the latest news and notes from D.C. and the NHL:

Washington Capitals

– Ovechkin took a step forward and had a strong practice on Monday as he deals with a day-to-day lower-body injury. (WHN)

– It will be vital for the team to get him back, especially with T.J. Oshie leaving the road trip early for the birth of his fourth child. (WHN)

– Ovechkin's line at Monday's practice also hinted at who will be the odd man out on Tuesday if he does play. (WHN)

– And a 1-on-1 with Sonny Milano, who is seeing the last-chance deal he signed with the Capitals three games into the season turn into the best move of his young career. (WHN)

NHL

– It was an emotional return to Calgary for Johnny Gaudreau as the Columbus Blue Jackets faced the Flames on Monday — and it wasn't by any means a warm homecoming. Calgary Flames (CHN)

– An update on Cale Makar from the man himself as he and the Avalanche prepare for Washington. Colorado Avalanche (CHN)

– An update on David Pastrnak and the Bruins' extension talks. Boston Bruins (BHN)

– Things are not going well on the Island. New York Islanders (NYIHN)

Top Shelf Takes

– Former Capitals netminder Vitek Vanecek has befriended a wild bird that's made a home for itself in Prudential Center. He told reporters postgame that he's seen it around the New Jersey Devils facility and also caught a glimpse of it on Sunday during the team's 2-1 overtime win over the Pittsburgh Penguins. A funny quote to Amanda Stein: "He's always watching." Vanecek's also on a seven-game win streak, so that bird may be a good luck charm, too.

– Washington will host its third "Hockey Talks" night on Thursday against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The players will wear the "Hockey Talks" decals on their helmets and there will be a panel and multiple resources and promotions for mental health awareness around the rink.

– Darcy Kuemper makes his return to Ball Arena for the first time since he won the Cup last season with the Avalanche, who he's already faced once this season. He officially took in his former home venue on Monday at practice but did make a mistake: he forgot to check out the Stanley Cup banner.