Alex Ovechkin (8)Mandatory Credit: Sergei Belski-USA TODAY Sports

Alex Ovechkin will not be making the trip up to Philadelphia for tonight’s game – it was noted by the Washington Post after he did not practice with the team on Wednesday that he has an upper-body injury. [Capitals Insider]

In lieu of this news, the Washington Capitals will need someone to step up in the captains absence – even if it is just for one game. Ovechkin is the leading scorer for the Caps, and he also has the most points with 15, 10 G 5 A – Nicklas Backstrom is a close second with 12 points, 2 G 10 A. Not only is he the leading goal scorer for the Caps, he also ranks second in the league for goals scored.

Two players that stick out on the stats sheet that could fill the scoring gap are Mikhail Grabovski (5 G), and Jason Chimera (4 G). Players that have been flying under the radar (points wise) include Laich, Brouwer, and Erat. All of whom need to step up their production even when Ovechkin is healthy and on the ice.

Troy Brouwer (20)Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

Brooks Laich

2 points this season, both goals

0 points in the last 4 games

Troy Brouwer

3 points this season, all goals

0 points in the last 3 games

Martin Erat

3 points this season, all assists

0 points in the last 4 games

As mentioned, even when Ovechkin re-joins the Capitals, there are several players who need to step up and start contributing at a greater rate. The few players named above are just the tip of the iceberg. Check below and select who you think needs to step up the most while Ovechkin is out.

Who Needs To Step Up Their Play In Ovechkin's Absence? NICKLAS BACKSTROM

MIKHAIL GRABOVSKI

JASON CHIMERA

BROOKS LAICH

TROY BROUWER

MARTIN ERAT

OTHER - Comment Below! View Results