Ovechkin expected to return Thursday after missing game for personal reasons

The Washington Capitals were without superstar forward and captain Alex Ovechkin on Tuesday against the San Jose Sharks.

Ovechkin did not play due to personal reasons, the team announced.

His absence marked only the 23rd time he's been unable to suit up since entering the NHL in 2005.

In one game so far this season, Ovechkin scored a goal and added an assist.