Capitals Head Coach Peter Laviolette gives big update on Ovechkin's status for Game 1

The Washington Capitals will open their playoff schedule on Tuesday night in Florida as they take on the Panthers for the first-time ever in the post-season.

There was some concern that captain Alexander Ovechkin may not be able to play Game 1 after suffering an upper-body injury on April 24th, but according to Capitals Head Coach Peter Laviolette, the 36-year-old will be in the lineup.

Ovechkin had a strong season, recording his ninth career 50-goal campaign, as well as putting up 90 points to lead the Captials in both categories. If Washington is to have any success in the series against the powerhouse Florida Panthers, Ovechkin will need to be at the top of his game, as we all know he can be.

Laviolette also confirmed that Vitek Vanecek will get the start in goal for Washington. Vanecek has a fairly good year, putting up a record of 20-12-6 with a 2.67 GAA, a .908 save percentage, along with four shutouts.

Puck drop for Game 1 between the Washington Capitals and Florida Panthers is set for 7:30 p.m. ET and can be watched on ESPN2 in the United States and Sportsnet360 in Canada.

Alex Ovechkin will play, per Capitals coach Peter Laviolette says.

Vitek Vanecek will start Game 1 for the Capitals, coach Laviolette says.— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) May 3, 2022

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