Breaking down the latest on Alex Ovechkin’s leave of absence
The Washington Capitals will be without Alex Ovechkin for the foreseeable future. Yesterday prior to morning skate, the captain came to the rink and addressed the team and exchanged hugs and goodbyes. Today he flew to Russia to be with his family in the wake of the passing of his father Mikhail.
There is no timetable for Ovechkin’s return. Peter Laviolette told the media yesterday:
“Listen, it’s tough sometimes. Life is tough. When it comes to your family and parents, that’s what matters. He’s going to deal with some things right now and we’re going to be supportive… I don’t see him back in the foreseeable future.”
T.J. Oshie said after last night’s 3-2 loss to the Carolina Hurricanes:
“We’re all thinking about O and his family and miss the hell out of him here. So it was definitely an emotional one but we came to the rink ready to play.”
This morning Alex announced the passing away of his dad on his Instagram. He wrote, “Today I lost my father. I thank everyone for the support, but please be understanding and do not disturb my family in this difficult time for us. Thank you.”
The Capitals sent out the following statement: “The Washington Capitals organization is saddened to hear the passing of our captain Alex Ovechkin’s father, Mr. Mikhail Ovechkin. Mr. Ovechkin was a true gentleman and was such a significant and consistent presence at Capitals games and practices. With a constant smile on his face, he loved interacting with our fans and expressing his gratitude for their support of his son, of whom he was incredibly proud. Our organization’s thoughts are with the Ovechkin family at this difficult time.”
One of the best moments of the summer of 2018 was when Alex had his day with the Cup. Due to health conditions, his dad was unable to fly to the U.S. to see his son lift the Stanley Cup but they got to lift it together when Ovechkin brought the Cup back to his homeland in Russia.
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On behalf of everyone at Stars and Sticks, we join Caps fans and the organization in mourning the loss of his dad. Our prayers are with you and your family Alex.