Blues veteran Andy McDonald tweeted critical comments about Washington Capitals star Alex Ovechkin on Wednesday regarding Ovechkin's decision not to attend the NHL All-Star game this weekend in Ottawa.
McDonald, who is @10_AMac on Twitter, tweeted "classless move by @Ovi8 'opting' out of NHL All-Star game."
The NHL named Ovechkin to the All-Star roster earlier this month. Then on Monday, the Capitals forward was suspended by the league for three regular-season games after an illegal hit on Pittsburgh's Zybnek Michalek.
Ovechkin later announced he would not attend the All-Star game, telling Washington reporters, "My heart is not there. I (got) suspended, so why I have to go there? I love the game; it's great event. I'd love to be there, but I'm suspended. I don't want to be a target. I feel I'm not deserving to be there right now. If I suspended, I have to be suspended. That's why I give up my (roster) spot."
McDonald, who is battling to get back into the Blues' lineup after missing the past 46 games with a concussion, said Ovechkin's decision bothers fans and players.
"I think it's disappointing for the fans," said McDonald, when reached by the Post-Dispatch. "The All-Star game is about the fans, a chance for them to see the league's best players showcase their skills. He's one of the premier players in the league. There will be a lot of disappointed fans not to see that at the All-Star game and the skills competition."
Asked if Ovechkin was showing up the NHL because of his suspension, McDonald said: "Obviously, he can only answer that. I saw him being interviewed and he said he felt that he doesn't deserve to be at the All-Star game. I think you just read from that what you will.
"It's just disappointing. You think about the number of kids that are Ovechkin fans, certainly those in Ontario who don't get to see him that much. Now just because he doesn't want to go or he's mad at the league ... it's disappointing. Other players feel the same way."
Ovechkin has played in four previous All-Star games and was the NHL's MVP in 2008 and '09. He has 20 goals and 39 points in 47 games with the Capitals this season.
McDonald received some flack from Capitals fans about his tweet. He responded back by tweeting, "Some bitter caps fans out there? Thought you would want to see your player showcase his skill at ASG!"
