What Happened
Washington Capitals coach Spencer Carbery told reporters on Friday that he expects Alex Ovechkin to be ready for the team's season opener on Oct. 2 against the Carolina Hurricanes. Ovechkin is recovering from a lower-body injury and will not play in any preseason games, including exhibitions on Friday and Saturday. He took part in a full practice on Thursday. Carbery said it would take a setback for Ovechkin to miss the opener.
Key Details
- Ovechkin is recovering from a lower-body injury.
- He will not play in any preseason games, including Friday and Saturday exhibitions.
- He participated in a full practice on Thursday.
- Carbery said a setback would be needed for Ovechkin to miss the opener.
- Ovechkin is 41 and the NHL's career leading goal-scorer.
What It Means
Ovechkin's availability for the opener is significant for a Capitals team that relies on his scoring. At 41, managing his health takes priority over preseason game action, and Carbery indicated the team wants him at 100 percent rather than rushing him back for exhibition play. If Ovechkin is ready, Washington will have its top goal-scorer in the lineup to start the season.
What's Next
The Capitals will continue to monitor Ovechkin's progress before the Oct. 2 opener in Carolina. If he avoids a setback, he is expected to play. Washington may provide further updates on his status as the season approaches.