WASHINGTON — Washington Capitals’ captain Alex Ovechkin will miss the 2016 NHL All-Star Game due to a lower-body injury, the team announced late Wednesday.
The Capitals added that his injury would be better served by rest.
The decision was made after consultation with Ovechkin and the Capitals front office, coaching and athletic training staffs.
“We made this difficult decision after taking into consideration what we felt was best for Alex and our organization,” said team general manager Brian MacLellan.
“Alex has been an incredible ambassador for our team and the league, but we believe it is better if he uses this time to heal and ideally be completely healthy for the duration of the season.”
Ovechkin’s status is day-to-day, but by NHL rule, he will be required to sit out the Feb. 2 game against the Florida Panthers.
The All-Star Game takes place on Sunday at 5 p.m.
