Washington Capitals' Alex Ovechkin suffers injury minutes into first skate of the season: worries growing

One of the storylines that will get the most attention this season is Alex Ovechkin's quest to beat Wayne Gretzky's goal record. He only needs 42 goals to become the best goal scorer in NHL history, and some believe he could achieve it this season or the next.

Unfortunately, a recent development during the Washington Capitals' informal practice session could stand in the way of this happening.

Indeed, Ovechkin left the ice during practice, visibly affected by an injury.

It's too early to know the nature of his injury or how it will impact the 38-year-old player as we get closer to the season opener.

If Ovi ends up missing significant time, the Caps will be able to rely on their summer acquisitions. By acquiring Pierre-Luc Dubois, who's looking for a fresh start after a tough journey in Los Angeles, Andrew Mangiapane, who'll try to make a good first impression with his new team after spending his whole career with the Calgary Flames, and Jakob Chychrun, the defenseman who'll try to regain his offensive touch, the Caps could still be a competitive team without Ovechkin.