Ovechkin skipping All-Star Game

Jan 24, 2012 - 6:54 PM Arlington, VA (Sports Network) - Washington Capitals general manager George McPhee told reporters Tuesday that forward Alexander Ovechkin will not participate in this weekend's NHL All-Star Game.

"Because he's a suspended player, he doesn't feel like he deserves to be there, so he's not going to go and he doesn't want to be a distraction to the event," McPhee said.

Ovechkin was suspended by the NHL for three games Monday for leaving his feet to deliver a high, hard check to the head of Pittsburgh defenseman Zbynek Michalek during Sunday's game.

In 47 games this season, Ovechkin has produced 20 goals and 19 assists.