Ovechkin returns to Russia, to miss game Tuesday

Oct 27, 2008 - 4:26 PM ARLINGTON, Virginia (Ticker) -- Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin has returned to his native Russia to visit his ailing grandfather and will miss Tuesday's game against the Nashville Predators.

The Capitals did not disclose when Ovechkin would return to the club, stating that the reigning Hart Trophy winner officially is listed as day-to-day.

Although Ovechkin will not be available, the Capitals said Monday that they likely will not make a roster move since they currently are carrying two extra forwards - David Steckel and Eric Fehr - on their roster.

After Tuesday's tilt with Nashville, Washington does not have another game until Saturday's visit to Buffalo.

Ovechkin, 23, has appeared in 203 consecutive games and has missed only one contest in three-plus seasons with the Capitals. The left wing has two goals and three assists in eight games this season.