NHL Daily: Ovi Opens Up About Late Dad; Update Coming on Flyers’ Star

Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin returned from Russia and opened up about his late dad, Mikhail. The left winger should be back in the Capitals’ lineup Thursday against visiting Anaheim.

“it’s a hard situation for my family, but right now I’m happy I’m back and see all the guys’ smiles,” he said at the Caps’ optional practice Wednesday. “It’s kind of like a different atmosphere than it was the last couple of days.”

The Flyers, meanwhile, are still waiting for an update on their standout right winger, Travis Konecny. He was injured in the second period Monday in Calgary, then sat out Tuesday’s  4-2 loss in Edmonton.

Konecny is having a career season, and he leads the Philadelphia Flyers in goals (27) and points (54).

GM Chuck Fletcher is expected to give an update on the 25-year-old winger Thursday.

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Around the NHL and National Hockey Now

Philly Hockey Now: Flyers prospect Devin Kaplan, a sturdy right winger, is opening eyes at Boston University. Russ Cohen has the story. Philadelphia Flyers.

Philly Hockey Now: In case you missed it, Travis Konecny was injured on the Flyers’ 1-3 road trip. Philadelphia Flyers.

Washington Hockey Now: Alex Ovechkin was emotional and tearful as he reflected on his dad. He called it the “toughest situation I’ve been through in my whole career.” Washington Capitals.

Detroit Hockey Now: The Red Wings, trying to make the playoffs for the first time in seven years, went 4-1 on a wacky road trip. Detroit Red Wings.

Pittsburgh Hockey Now: Sidney Crosby says the Penguins need to work a “little bit harder.”  Pittsburgh Penguins.

Florida Hockey Now: All signs point to Anthony Duclair returning to the Panthers’ lineup Friday against Buffalo. He had offseason Achilles surgery and has not played in 2022-23.  Florida Panthers.

Montreal Hockey Now: The Habs are linked to Winnipeg center Pierre Luc-Dubois. Montreal Canadiens.

Boston Hockey Now: Jake DeBrusk’s strong return has lessened the Bruins’ need to add a forward. The winger had goals in his first two games after missing 17 games with injuries. Boston Bruins.

Vegas Hockey Now; The Golden Knights acquired Arizona defenseman Dysin Mayo for a 2023 fifth-round draft pick and Shea Weber’s contract. Vegas Golden Knights.