The Washington Capitals didn’t have Alex Ovechkin available on Friday as the captain sat out the second day of training camp with a lower-body injury, one that he initially suffered on Thursday’s camp opener.
The Capitals confirmed Ovechkin’s absence after he left Thursday’s opening session early, with NHL.com’s Tom Gulitti reporting the team’s update and noting that Ovechkin did not take the ice at MedStar Capitals Iceplex.
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“Alex Ovechkin (lower body) won’t skate at camp today, Capitals say,” Guilitti posted on X.
Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery had described Thursday’s incident and Ovechkin’s removal from the ice as precautionary, downplaying any long-term concern: “He came off early today, nothing significant.”
Ovechkin himself echoed Carbery’s feelings and tone on Thursday, leaving his status for Friday uncertain.
“I don’t know,” Ovechkin said on Thursday. “We’ll see tomorrow.”
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The 40-year-old is entering his 21st NHL season after surpassing Wayne Gretzky last spring to become the league’s all-time leading goal scorer.
Ovechkin sits three goals shy of 900 and nine games away from 1,500 in his career. The Russian winger is coming off scoring 44 goals last season despite missing 16 games with a broken leg and sitting out one game for rest.
Washington Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin leaves the ice.James Guillory-Imagn Images
Ovechkin’s absence on Friday comes as Washington prepares for its preseason opener Sunday against the Boston Bruins.
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In another practice update, Gulitti reported that defenseman Trevor van Riemsdyk also missed Friday’s session, albeit for personal reasons.
“Trevor van Riemsdyk is not skating today for personal reasons, per Caps,” Sami Silber wrote on X, before adding more information about the blueliner’s absence. “He and his wife are also expecting a baby soon.”
Related: Alex Ovechkin Responds to Retirement Question After Injury Scare
This story was originally reported by Athlon Sports on Sep 19, 2025, where it first appeared in the NHL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.