Ovechkin Set to Return Against Rangers

Word is that the Russian phenom will return to the lineup tonight at Madison Square Garden after sitting out six straight games due to an upper-body injury suffered on November first. The absence of Ovechkin did not seem to slow the Caps down much, as they took four out of the six contests and are currently leading the Southeast Division with 28 points. That just goes to show you the depth of the young Washington club, and proves that Ovechkin is not the "entire team" as many would say.

When asked if the "Great Eight" would be ready to go against the Rangers tonight, head coach Bruce Boudreau said that as of now, yes, but they would wait to see how he feels after he participates in the morning skate on the Garden ice. The last time the Rangers had a star return to the lineup against them was when the Thrashers' Ilya Kovalchuk came back from a foot injury and ended up recording a goal and an assist in an Atlanta victory. Hopefully it will be a different story with Ovechkin, but based on the recent play of the Ranger defense, it does not seem too promising. Alex already has recorded 14 goals and nine assists for 23 points in 14 games played this season.

Will have more later and also check for any updates on twitter at www.twitter.com/rangerstribune.