Feb 15: Ovechkin has announced the death of his father. Though no official timeline has been given for his return, head coach Peter Laviolette told the media, including Tom Gulitti of NHL.com, that he does not expect him back this week. That throws his status for Saturday’s Stadium Series game in jeopardy.
Feb 14: The Gretzky chase will have to wait. Alex Ovechkin will be away from the Washington Capitals to attend to a family matter and the health of a loved one.
After going scoreless in his last four, Ovechkin sits at 32 goals through 54 games this season and 812 for his career. Every time he lights the lamp, he inches closer to hockey immortality – and helps the Capitals fight for a playoff spot in the tough Metropolitan Division.
It is not clear how long he will be absent but will be missing at least tonight against the Carolina Hurricanes. The club also takes on the Florida Panthers on Thursday before meeting Carolina again on Saturday night.
Hopefully, the superstar winger will resolve whatever is taking him away and return to the team before long.
In the meantime, the Capitals have recalled Joe Snively to take his place. The 27-year-old winger has played six games with Washington this season, recording one point. The 5’9″ forward certainly isn’t a replacement for Ovechkin but is a nice offensive piece that the team can move around and potentially put on the powerplay.
Putin must have stubbed his toe.
Aaaand here we go
He forgot it was valentines day. The wife was not happy.
Unfortunately, his dad was taken to emergency room, that is the reason for Alex to fly to
Moscow
Thanks for the actual update.
Doubt the cementheads will feel any shame over their catcalling, though.
Hopefully all will be well in time for the outdoor game. Would suck to have him miss that.
Don’t like this news considering Ovi’s dad has a history of heart trouble. Hopefully he recovers and is able to watch his son break Gretzky’s record one day.
Hope his dad gets well soon.
Heartfelt condolences to Alex, his Mom, and his family.