Alex Ovechkin back with Capitals after passing PCR test

Anthony Scultore |

Feb 8, 2022

Washington Capitals superstar captain Alex Ovechkin missed the NHL All-Star Game after landing on the COVID protocol list. He rejoined the team on Tuesday after passing a PCR test.

Tom Wilson replaced him and Claude Giroux served as captain in his stead.

Ovechkin back

Dec 2, 2021; Washington, District of Columbia, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin (8) reacts to missing a shot against the Chicago Blackhawks during the third period at Capital One Arena. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

The 36-year-old winger tested positive for COVID-19 prior to last weekend’s All-Star festivities in Las Vegas and missed the event, where he had been slated to serve as captain of the Metropolitan Division squad.

Ovechkin was on the ice Tuesday morning and is expected to play against the visiting Columbus Blue Jackets later that night.

“I have five days off. I’m rested. I feel good,” Ovechkin said. “So obviously, right now, in this month we don’t have lots of games. We’re going to have lots of days off. So it’s time to work for your conditioning, work in the gym, get more power for your body and get ready for the rest of the season.”

Ovechkin has 58 points (29 goals, 29 assists) in 46 games this season, his 17th with Washington. He leads active players in goals (759) and is second among active players in points (1,378).

–Field Level Media contributed to this report