Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin (8), of Russia, reaches for the puck after falling on the ice during the third period of an NHL preseason hockey game against the Columbus Blue Jackets in Washington, Monday, Sept. 26, 2011.Charles Dharapak/The Associated Press
THE ASSOCIATED PRESS
Alex Ovechkin is leaving the Washington Capitals for a few days following a death in his family.
The Capitals said Monday that Ovechkin would be travelling to his home in Moscow after learning of the death of a close relative.
Team spokesman Sergey Kocharov says the Capitals are hopeful the two-time league MVP will be back in time for the regular season opener Saturday against Carolina.
Washington wrapped up its exhibition schedule Sunday.