Alex Oveckhin injury update: Capitals winger leaves Game 5 with knee injury, returns

Alex Ovechkin left Game 5 with a potential knee injury. 

The Washington Capitals are struggling a bit with the Toronto Maple Leafs. Entering Friday’s action, they were tied with them at two games a piece in their seven games series. Though the Caps have a 1-0 lead through the first period, it didn’t come without a huge loss. The goal came on a power play after Alex Ovechkin got clipped by Maple Leafs forward Nazem Kadri.

Kadri was assessed two minutes for tripping. However, by the book, he probably should have gotten a clipping penalty. According to the rules, because Ovechkin went to the locker room, Kadri should have gotten a five minute major for clipping. The Caps immediately got revenge thanks to T.J. Oshie, who scored on the ensuing power play.

If the Capitals are without Ovechkin, they are pretty much screwed. He’s not only their best player, he’s their captain. Ovechkin represents the heart and soul of the Caps. Washington takes after their captain, playing a fast paced, physical and energetic game. Ovechkin is also a huge part of their power play. He appears to be favoring his knee. While Ovechkin needed some help getting off, he was able to limp off at the end, which is a good sign. Early on, he couldn’t put any weight on his leg.

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Ovechkin was able to return to the game in the second period. He’s one tough son of a gun. Ovechkin has been physical and fast for his entire career. Yet he has missed more games due to suspension or rest than injury. His durability might be even more impressive than his goal scoring, which says a lot. Ovechkin got a standing ovation upon his return to the ice.