Ovechkin to return to lineup Tuesday

Nov 4, 2008 - 4:49 PM WASHINGTON (Ticker) -- After missing two games, superstar Alex Ovechkin will be back in the lineup Tuesday when the Washington Capitals host the Ottawa Senators.

Ovechkin, who spent six days in Russia with his ailing grandfather, returned to Washington on Sunday and practiced with the Capitals on Monday.

Washington went 1-1 without Ovechkin, the reigning Art Ross, Maurice Richard and Hart Trophy winner.

The Capitals overcame Ovechkin's absence to beat the Nashville Predators, 4-3, in a shootout on October 28, but were flat in a 5-0 loss to the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday.

Washington coach Bruce Boudreau feels that Ovechkin's return Sunday energized the team.

"Your big brother's home, so you feel better," Boudreau said. "There seems to be a little bit more life. You can hear the talking and (there is) a little more jump. Hopefully, it transcends into (Tuesday's) game."

Ovechkin, 23, has gotten off to a slow start this season, recording just two goals and three assists in the Capitals' first eight games.

The 2006 Calder Trophy winner who was drafted first overall in 2004, Ovechkin led the league last season with 65 goals and 112 points as he helped Washington to the Southeast Division title.

Ovechkin had played in 203 consecutive games before missing last week's contest against Nashville.