The Washington Capitals scratched forwards Alex Ovechkin and Sonny Milano less than an hour before Tuesday night’s game against the host New York Rangers.

The team said Ovechkin had a lower-body injury and Milano was dealing with an illness.

Ovechkin, who leads the Capitals in goals (36) and points (62), is known for his durability and has previously missed only 28 games due to injury in his 18-year NHL career.

Earlier this season, the 37-year-old surpassed Gordie Howe to become the No. 2 all-time goal-scorer in NHL history. Ovechkin now has 816 goals in his career, including four in his past six games.

Milano has tallied 10 goals and 19 assists in 54 games this season.

The Capitals, fighting for a wild-card spot in the Eastern Conference, will hope to get the pair back soon. They are scheduled to play Wednesday at home against Buffalo, Friday at home to St. Louis and Sunday at Minnesota.

–Field Level Media