Alex Ovechkin returning to Russia’s lineup at World Hockey Championships

Apr 13, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals right wing Alex Ovechkin (8) clears the puck from in front of Capitals goalie Braden Holtby (70) as Tampa Bay Lightning center Alex Killorn (17) chases in the first period at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 13, 2014; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals right wing Alex Ovechkin (8) clears the puck from in front of Capitals goalie Braden Holtby (70) as Tampa Bay Lightning center Alex Killorn (17) chases in the first period at Verizon Center. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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A few days ago, the hockey world–and the Washington Capitals in particular–held their breath as Alex Ovechkin was unable to get off the ice under his own power following a collision during Russia’s game against Germany in the IIHF World Hockey Championships.

Ovechkin was sent flying into the air and landed on his knee. Looking to be in great pain, he had to be helped off the ice and went straight to the locker room. A long term injury was the last thing Ovechkin and the Capitals needed after failing to make the playoffs this year.

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But all of Russia and Washington can exhale today, as it was announced that Ovechkin’s injury was not all that serious, and he will be returning to Russia’s lineup, and returning to duty as captain.

From ESPN.com

"The Russian hockey federation says Ovechkin will resume his duty as team captain.Ovechkin missed the final group match against Belarus on Tuesday after injuring his right leg in a collision during Russia’s game against Germany.The forward needed hospital treatment Sunday after taking a hit to his right knee from Marcus Kink midway through the third period. He stayed on the ice for several minutes before he needed assistance to leave."

This is great news all around, as you never want to see someone seriously injured, especially a star player like Ovechkin who brings so much excitement to the ice.