Washington CapitalsStar Alex OvechkinAfter a positive test result on Wednesday, he was not allowed to participate in the NHL All-Star Game in Las Vegas.
Ovechkin was also expelled from the Capitals’ match against the Edmonton OilersWednesday night
Ovechkin (36), was elected captain of the Metropolitan Division team in Saturday’s All-Star Game (3:00 p.m.). ET, ABC) was set to participate in the NHL All-Star Skills contest (7:30 p.m.). ET, ESPN, having won the event in 2018.
Ovechkin was a 12-time All-Star selection and this would have been his eighth appearance in the NHL All-Star Game.
“It doesn’t matter if your name is voted by fans or the league. When Ovechkin was named captain, he said it was a privilege. It’s representing your team and you. You also get to have fun with some of the most talented players on the ice. It’s an amazing moment.”
Ovechkin must stay in isolation for at least five days according to NHL COVID protocols. Ovechkin may leave the protocol after a negative PCR, CT value less than 30, or two negative molecular-point of care tests less than 2 hours apart. The team physician will need to give clearance.
After Wednesday’s games, the NHL’s revised COVID protocols will be in effect. This means that all NHL players must still be tested Wednesday, even fully vaccinated players.
If a player is named to the NHL All-Star Game, but does not play, they must either miss their team’s game immediately before or after the All-Star Break. Ovechkin’s absence in Edmonton fulfills this requirement.
Capitals winger James Van Riemsdyk played 21:31, but was held scoreless in Tuesday’s win over Pittsburgh. He is a candidate for NHL MVP honours with 29 goals and 29 assists this season.