Washington Capitals head coach Peter Laviolette spoke about captain Alexander Ovechkin, noting that the star winger had left the team for personal reasons tied to family matters. In addressing the situation, Laviolette emphasized the seriousness of family obligations and the need to support Ovechkin during this time.
“When it comes to family and parents, that’s the most important thing,” Laviolette explained. “He’s going to handle things the right way, and we’re going to stand with him every step of the way.”
Ovechkin, a proud veteran who has spent years proving his dedication to the Capitals, has always valued the close bond within the organization. Laviolette noted the importance of Ovechkin addressing the team directly, stating that it was essential for him to talk with the players in the locker room once he had the chance to convey his thoughts and explain the situation.
The 37-year-old winger has been a defining presence for Washington this season, tallying 32 goals and 22 assists through 54 games. Across his NHL career, he has reached 812 goals, placing him second on the league’s all-time scoring list and strengthening his legacy as one of hockey’s most prolific scorers.
On December 24, Ovechkin contributed in a game against Winnipeg, scoring once and assisting on another goal. That performance marked a notable milestone, lifting him past a significant mark on the league’s history and narrowing the gap to the record held by Wayne Gretzky, who sits at 894 goals. This moment underscored Ovechkin’s enduring impact and his ability to affect outcomes in clutch situations, even as personal matters demanded attention away from the rink.
There have been public acknowledgments from fans and peers alike, including remarks from individuals outside hockey who have followed Ovechkin’s career with admiration. A figure from the American figure skating community, Maxim Naumov, expressed support, reinforcing the broad respect Ovechkin has earned across sports and beyond.