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Ovechkin responds to suspension

Tue 16th, March 2010

Arlington, VA (Sports Network) - Washington Capitals forward Alex Ovechkin issued a statement on Tuesday regarding his NHL-sanctioned suspension.

Ovechkin was penalized for two games without pay on Monday for his hit on Chicago Blackhawks defenseman Brian Campbell during the first period of Sunday's 4-3 Washington overtime victory.

As Campbell skated with the puck into his own end, Ovechkin shoved him from behind into the end boards. The Blackhawks defenseman fell awkwardly into the dasher, eventually suffering a broken collarbone and a fractured rib. Ovechkin was given a major penalty and game misconduct for his actions.

"I am very sorry that Brian was injured and I hope he is able to return to his team soon," Ovechkin said. "NHL hockey is a physical game. We all play hard every time we are on the ice and have battles each shift so we can do our jobs and win.

"As players we must accept responsibility for our actions and I am no different, but I did not intend to injure Brian and that is why I was disappointed with the NHL's decision yesterday," Ovechkin added. "I look forward to returning to my team and doing everything I can to be the best player I can be."

The Blackhawks also issued a release on Tuesday, indicating that Campbell will be lost for 7-to-8 weeks, a timeframe which places his return to the lineup near the start of the Western Conference semifinals should Chicago advance that far.

Having also been suspended for two games earlier this season for a knee-to- knee collision with Carolina defenseman Tim Gleason, Ovechkin is considered a repeat offender under the terms of the collective bargaining agreement and will forfeit $232,645.40 in salary.

Ovechkin is eligible to return this Saturday, when the Capitals visit the Tampa Bay Lightning.