Capitals' Alex Ovechkin remains out Friday vs. Flyers

The Washington Capitals may have to pursue the NHL East Division regular-season title without their captain and key superstar. 

According to Tom Gulitti of the NHL's website, Washington's Alex Ovechkin will remain sidelined through at least Friday's matchup against the Philadelphia Flyers because of a lower-body injury. Ovechkin first experienced the setback on April 22, played only 39 seconds versus the New York Rangers on Monday, and missed Wednesday's game at the Rangers. 

Previously, Capitals coach Peter Laviolette said he believes the 35-year-old will be ready for the playoffs. The NHL has not yet confirmed its postseason schedule. 

"I'm not sure if he went out for a spin or not," Laviolette said about Ovechkin possibly taking the ice at any point on Friday. "He wasn't out with us beforehand and he wasn't out with us (for the morning skate)." 

It's unknown if Ovechkin will be available for Saturday's game against Philadelphia or Tuesday's contest versus the Boston Bruins. Per ESPN stats, he leads the Capitals with 24 goals in 44 games this season

Heading into Friday's action, the second-place Capitals trail the rival Pittsburgh Penguins in the division standings by two points but hold two games in hand over Pittsburgh. The Pens finish their regular-season schedule Saturday against the Buffalo Sabres.