BOSTON - Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin, the leading goal-scorer in the NHL and the league's reigning MVP, left Tuesday night's game against the Bruins in the second period but returned for the third after awkwardly crashing into the boards following a hook from Boston defenceman Zdeno Chara.
As Ovechkin returned, Capitals forward Alexander Semin was injured when he got a high stick from Chuck Kobasew in the neck on the opening possession of the third period.
With 5:35 left in the second, Ovechkin hit the boards behind the Bruins goal with his right shoulder and head, then remained motionless on the ice for about 15 seconds before rolling over and rubbing his face with his glove.
Although he left the ice a few minutes later, he was doubled over and flexing his right arm; he sat on the bench just a few minutes before walking off through the tunnel and slamming his gloves and helmet to the ground.
Ovechkin leads the NHL with 31 goals and is third with 59 points.