Capitals reveal Alex Ovechkin took leave of absence due to father's death

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Alex Ovechkin’s leave of absence from the Washington Capitals is due to the death of his father, the team announced Wednesday. 

Ovechkin wasn’t present at Tuesday morning’s skate for the Capitals, as GM Brian MacLellan said he would be absent, though no further details were released. 

Ovechkin is expected to be away from the team for at least the rest of the week. 

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MCI Center, Washington DC  Capitals exhibition vs. Buffalo. Also shots of #8 Alex Ovechkin.  Washington Caps new player #8 Alex Ovechkin and his father Mikhail Ovechkin Sr., outside the Caps team room, after game. (Tracy A. Woodward/Washington Post via Getty Images)

"Today I lost my father," Ovechkin posted in Russian on Instagram, which included family photos and video. "I thank everyone for the support but please be understanding and do not disturb my family in this difficult time for us! Thank you."

Head coach Peter Laviolette said Tuesday that he doesn’t expect to have his captain back on the ice for "the foreseeable future."

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"When it comes to your family and parents, that's what matters," Laviolette said, via ESPN. "He's going to deal with some things right now, and we're going to be supportive."

The Capitals released a statement on Twitter for Mikhail Ovechkin, who died at 71. 

"Mr. Ovechkin was a true gentleman and was such a significant and consistent presence at Capitals games and practices," the team said. "With a constant smile on his face, he loved interacting with our fans and expressing his gratitude for