Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin will miss the All-Star Game because of what's described as "a lower-body injury that would be better served by rest," the team announced.
The decision was made in consultation with Ovechkin, who was voted in by fans as Metropolitan Division captain, and the Caps' front office, coaching and athletic training staffs.
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“We made this difficult decision after taking into consideration what we felt was best for Alex and our organization,” said Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan. “Alex has been an incredible ambassador for our team and the league, but we believe it is better if he uses this time to heal and ideally be completely healthy for the duration of the season.”
Ovechkin hasn’t missed any action because of the injury, leading some to speculate this was a move to get the Caps star a long rest before the push toward the playoffs.
Still, coach Barry Trotz told reporters that Ovechkin had been dealing with the injury for some time.
Trotz on Ovechkin out of ASG with injury: "he's been dealing with it for quite a while. ... We made a long-term decision."
— Stephen Whyno (@SWhyno) January 28, 2016Ovechkin’s playing status is listed as day-to-day, but by NHL rule, he will be required to sit out the Capitals' first game after the All-Star break, Tuesday against the Panthers.