Ovechkin to Miss Final Preseason Tune-ups
Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin has been ruled out of the team's final two preseason contests because of a lower-body injury, according to a report from The Hockey News. The 41-year-old will not play Friday against the Boston Bruins or Saturday against the Philadelphia Flyers. Despite the absence, Ovechkin took full part in Thursday's practice, suggesting he is moving in a positive direction.[S1]
Head coach Spencer Carbery indicated Thursday that it is not essential for Ovechkin to appear in preseason games in order to be ready for the regular-season opener. The Capitals plan to be cautious with their captain as the preseason schedule concludes. Carbery said Friday that he expects Ovechkin to be available for the team's Opening Night matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes on Oct. 2.[S1]
