Things have changed quickly for the Washington Capitals, who have dropped in the NHL’s Eastern Conference standings. They were poised for the Stanley Cup Playoffs, but the unpredicted tragedy of the loss of their captain’s father derailed their season. Four games have been played without Alexander Ovechkin, and in those games, the Capitals have been swept by their opponents, eliminating them from the playoff chase. However, Ovechkin has returned to the rink after attending his father’s funeral, and the Capitals’ coach has some words for his NHL star.

Alexander Ovechkin, who has been going through hardships, was seen during Wednesday’s morning practice. According to a report by Roman Stubbs of The Washington Post, he was the first player to be seen practicing, and the rink became quiet. Clearly, Capitals head coach Peter Laviolette was thrilled to have Ovechkin back for practice and ready to go for the Stanley Cup Playoffs after he missed four games.

Capital’s coach’s candid views on his NHL star

Both the team’s coach and the fans have been pleased to see the Capitals’ captain return. After missing their captain for just four games, the squad went from being in a strong position to one of serious difficulty. Since Alex Ovechkin has returned to the rink, the head coach has gone out of his way to stress the significance of his return.

In the interview, as reported by the Washington Post, Petter Laviolette says, “It was felt when he wasn’t here. He’s a big part of the team. He’s our leading point-getter. He’s our leading goal scorer. He’s the captain of the team. It’s his love for the game that shines through in the locker room, and it’s a big body and a big presence coming back in our lineup. So we’re certainly happy to have him back.”

Also Read | “He Stole the Draft Board With Your Name on It”: Remembering the Dedicated Father of Alex Ovechkin, Fans Celebrate His Wonderful 71 Years

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Before their home game against the Florida Panthers on Thursday, the team observed a minute of silence in memory of Mikhail Ovechkin. While away, Ovechkin kept in contact with his squad. The team missed their leader and Laviolette is just relieved to have him back. The head coach shares the players’ worry at the team’s precipitous decline and explains why Ovechkin is their best hope for regaining their former prominence in the league.

Capitals fans welcomed Alex Ovechkin

The Washington Capitals welcomed the return of their captain by sharing an Instagram post. The captain said, “Welcome back, O,” and the fans took no time to barge into the comment section to welcome back their NHL star. Here are some comments to prove it.

This fan talks about how important Ovechkin is for their club, and said, “No Ovie = no wins. It’s kinda sad really, considering I have brand new jerseys of Oshie and Backström. I love Caps, but there seem to be no future for the team without The 8.”

One fan thinks it would have been better for him to take a rest, and said, “Ovu could have taken the rest of the season off, and everyone would have understood.”

Another Capitals fan is sure of them winning their next game against the Ducks, and said, “Thank God, can we start winning games now? Do it for your Dad Ovi!”

It looks like this fan just predicted the future,and conirmed, “He’s about to score a hatty.”

Watch This Story | Washington Capitals Left Wing Star Alexander Ovechkin Mourns the Loss of His Father, Mikhail, at 71

Do you also think that the return of Alex Ovechkin to the squad will take them again to the playoff spot? Let us know in the comment section.