Ilya Kovalchuk, who is recovering from a lower body injury, did not participate in the Devils’ optional practice Wednesday. NorthJersey.com reports.

Kovalchuk has missed the prior two games and is trying to return for a home-and-home set against the Capitals on Friday and Saturday.

The website says Zach Parise and Patrik Elias also did not participate after a 3-2 win over the Hurricanes on Tuesday.