Ovechkin Comments On McDavid's Suspension, Understands Oilers Star's Perspective

Washington Capitals captain Alex Ovechkin is no stranger to passion.

Passion is what's powered the 39-year-old to great heights over the course of his 20-year career, as he now sits just 21 goals away from passing Wayne Gretzky for the most in NHL history. It's also landed him in some heated moments.

As a result, it made it easier for him to understand what was behind Edmonton Oilers captain Connor McDavid's recent three-game suspension.

After being held down by Conor Garland in the final minute of a loss to the Vancouver Canucks, McDavid grew frustrated with Garland and no call from the referees on the play, leading the 28-year-old to cross-check Garland in the head.

The NHL Department of Player Safety held a hearing for McDavid and dulled out the disciplinary action on Monday.

"It's a game, it's a passion, obviously," Ovechkin said of McDavid. "I don't think he meant to do that."

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Still, Ovechkin isn't necessarily disappointed to see that McDavid won't be in the lineup when his Capitals visit Edmonton on Tuesday. McDavid has racked up 65 points through 43 games this season for the Oilers, trailing only Leon Draisaitl, who has 69 points in 46 games played.

"Sucks for him, but good for us," Ovechkin chided. "... We'll take it."

Washington will be looking to extend its four-game winning streak and 10-game point streak against Edmonton while building on its league lead. Puck drop is at 9 p.m. ET at Rogers Place, where Ovechkin got to try on some of Gretzky's game-used gear.