Alex Ovechkin Injury: Updates on Capitals Star's Lower Body and Return

Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin suffered a lower-body injury that kept him out of the NHL All-Star Game, but he is ready to return.

Continue for updates.

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Ovechkin to Play vs. Islanders

Wednesday, Feb. 3

Capitals head coach Barry Trotz told reporters Ovechkin will play on Thursday against the New York Islanders.

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Ovechkin Comments on Injury

Wednesday, Jan. 27

"I have to be ready for the rest of the year. Get healthy. We have good chance to have success, and I want to be part of it," said Ovechkin, per Chuck Gormley of CSN Mid-Atlantic. After thanking fans, he added, "Tell them sorry, but right now we’re focused to get ready for the rest of the year and be healthy in the playoffs."

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Durable Ovechkin Enjoying Another Brilliant Season

Ovechkin has been quite durable throughout his NHL career. A lower-body injury in the 2014-15 season halted his streak of 96 consecutive games played, but he's otherwise proven his toughness and missed just one contest with the aforementioned ailment.

The 30-year-old veteran has posted a plus/minus rating of plus-20 this season, helping Washington emerge among Stanley Cup contenders. He's posted 28 goals and 14 assists in 46 games, putting him on pace for a third straight 50-goal campaign.