Ovechkin Out For ‘Foreseeable Future,’ Capitals Provide Update

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals will be without their captain for a bit, as Alex Ovechkin will be out for the foreseeable future as he attends to a family matter and the health of a loved one.

Per head coach Peter Laviolette, Ovechkin will be out for some time and is not expected back this week. That means that he would miss the team's Stadium Series game on Saturday in Raleigh against the Carolina Hurricanes.

"I don't see him back for the foreseeable future," Laviolette said.

The 37-year-old did stop by MedStar Capitals Iceplex on Tuesday to address his teammates. 

"He came and talked to the boys," T.J. Oshie said. "Definitely, it's nice to get to see him and give him a hug and let him know that we're here for him in person rather than over text. We're thinking about him and we're missing him and wishing him all the best for sure."

Ovechkin has played in 54 games this season and has 32 goals and 22 assists. Being without their captain will be tough, as the Capitals have been struggling to score goals lately. The team is averaging just 2.19 goals per 60 dating back to Jan. 6, the second-lowest total in the league.

With Ovechkin out, Anthony Mantha is drawing back in after missing Sunday's game due to illness. Aliaksei Protas will also remain in the mix. Washington also recalled Joe Snively from the Hershey Bears to help fill the void, and he will be the extra forward for now.

The Capitals host Carolina on Tuesday for a first meeting before their outdoor game.