Washington Capitals’ Ovechkin “able to play”
By Matthew Laux
In the last week, the Washington Capitals have outscored their opponents 10-2 and finished with a 2-0 record following a 3-2 shootout victory over the Florida Panthers. Both of those games were played without captain Alex Ovechkin, who suffered an upper body injury following a collision with the Vancouver goalie.
Oct 26, 2013; Calgary, Alberta, CAN; Washington Capitals right wing Alex Ovechkin (8) skates with the puck against the Calgary Flames during the third period at Scotiabank Saddledome. Calgary Flames won 5-2. Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports
Ovechkin said Monday that he’s “able to play” Tuesday as the Capitals take on the New York Islanders. Head coach Adam Oates has been a bit more conservative when talking about the injured Ovechkin, saying he’s a game-time decision.
Ovechkin joked with the media Monday saying, “they don’t even need me“ after their last two wins. Nonetheless, it will be important how Oates manages Ovechkin’s injury as he eases himself back into the lineup. Washington will host New York, Tuesday night, as the team hopes to break .500 for the first time this season.