Capitals could sit Ovechkin vs. Predators as precautionary measure

Alex Ovechkin scored on an empty net for his 46th goal of the season as the Washington Capitals beat the St. Louis Blues 4-2.

The Washington Capitals received quite a scare Monday night when Alex Ovechkin went crashing into the end boards feet first.

Thankfully, the NHL’s leading goal-scorer was able to remain in the game, but the team is still taking a few precautionary measures with its captain prior to the post-season.

While he skated earlier Wednesday following an off-day Tuesday, Ovechkin did not participate in the team’s practice and could sit out Thursday’s game against the Nashville Predators.

“It’s just day to day,” Head coach Barry Trotz said Wednesday, via NHL.com, adding that he is not concerned about Ovechkin’s health come playoff time. “Obviously, you saw him go into the boards there, so it was just maintenance more than anything. He was on the ice early today and we just kept him off [for practice], and we’ll see where he is [Thursday].”

Washington has the luxury of resting the 32-year-old, having already locked up the Metropolitan Division with two games left on the regular season schedule.

“We’ll make that decision [Thursday],” Trotz said. “I can’t make it today.”

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