With a 5-3 win against the New York Rangers in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals, the Washington Capitals now force a deciding Game Seven.
Should either the Capitals or Rangers be eliminated from the playoffs, there are several intriguing possibilities among players that might be available, including Alexander Ovechkin. Perhaps the most exciting player in the game, Ovechkin could greatly improve Russia’s chances here in Switzerland.
The Russian team management was following the New York - Washington game as they were watching their own team cruise to a victory against France in Berne. A representative confirmed that the Russian Ice Hockey Federation would contact Ovechkin and the Washington management if he becomes available on Tuesday night. They wouldn't speculate about any other Russian players taking part in that series.
Other prominent players that might be available include:
Czech Republic: Tomas Fleischmann
Russia: Sergei Fedorov, Alexander Semin, Simeon Varlamov
Sweden: Nicklas Bäckström, Henrik Lundqvist
There are no guarantees that any of these players will be available or that they would accept to play if they are. At the same time, each represents a considerable option for certain national teams that could help bolster their efforts at the World Championships.
Game Seven will be played on Tuesday, April 28 at 19:00 ET.