Alex Ovechkin addressed a much-larger-than-usual media contingent this morning after practice. He didn't divulge what the specific nature of the injury is, or how long he will be out, but he did say he hopes to play as soon as this weekend. It is Ovechkin, so it's hard to say what he can or can't do.

In other news, Eric Fehr left practice early and Bruce Boudreau ruled him out for tomrrow night. Boudreau said he wasn't sure if the team will call up another forward or play Tyler Sloan up front.

Boudreau didn't have an update on Boyd Gordon, but said John Erskine could play -- but he hasn't decided if he will play him or not.

The Caps will need everyone to play a little bit better, but if there is one guy on the roster who can carry this club for games at a time that isn't Alex Ovechkin, it is "the other Alex."

Semin has shown in spurts that he can be one of the best players in the world. The talent is certainly there, but consistency (both in effort and production) and durability are the big issues with him.

Here's what Semin had to say about the added pressure without his buddy around (via a translator):

"I welcome that, because I am going to have more tests and more ice time. I look forward to that."

More on Semin in tomorrow's paper.

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