Ovechkin's All-Star replacement has been announced
Alex Ovechkin is missing the All Star Game due to a positive COVID-19 test result on Wednesday. He won't be replaced at the All-Star Game by Sidney Crosby but instead his teammate, Tom Wilson.
This is Wilson's first career All-Star appearance and it's actually well deserved. He's having a breakout season offensively with 31 points in 42 games and his physicality is something that will keep the game interesting. While it's just an exhibition game, that doesn't necessarily mean we won't see any contact. Obviously, Wilson won't be out there head hunting, but I would imagine that he'll try to use his massive frame to create some space for himself and his teammates.
It's unfortunate that both Crosby and Ovechkin will be missing the All-Star game, especially since they're two of hockey's most recognizable stars and it would definitely help grow the sport in the first year of the NHL's new TV deal in the US. That being said, we haven't seen a tough guy like Wilson in the All-Star game since John Scott in 2016. Having Wilson at the game could certainly create some memorable moments.
