Alex Ovechkin Pulls Out of NHL All-Star Game, Says His ‘Heart Is Not There’ After Being Suspended

Scratch one hockey superstar from the midseason gala.

Capitals left wing Alex Ovechkin told The Washington Post Tuesday that he is pulling out of the 2012 NHL All-Star Game in Ottawa.

The Caps’ captain decided to skip out after being suspended for three games for a hit on Pittsburgh Penguins defenseman Zybnek Michalek.

“My heart is not there. I suspended, so why I have to go there?” Ovechkin said. “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].”