Capitals Adjust Lineup as Ovechkin Faces Extended Absence

The Washington Capitals are set to play their first game without Alex Ovechkin, who is out with a lower leg injury, against the Colorado Avalanche. Andrew Mangiapane will step up to the first line alongside Dylan Strome and Aliaksei Protas. Mangiapane, who joined the Capitals from the Calgary Flames, has been a consistent performer on the third line. Coach Spencer Carbery expressed confidence in the team's ability to adapt without Ovechkin, emphasizing the importance of maintaining their structure. Logan Thompson will return as the starting goaltender for the Capitals.