Washington Capitals Head Coach Barry Trotz had some bad news regarding Andre Burakovsky’s injured right hand. While speaking to reporters after practice Friday afternoon, Trotz revealed that Burakovsky’s hand injury is significant and will keep him out of action until mid to late March (four to six weeks).

Barry Trotz announces Andre Burakovsky (hand) will be out until mid to late March. #Caps

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) February 10, 2017

Trotz refused to answer if Burakovsky broke his hand, saying he’s not a doctor. The team has determined however that the Swede will not need to have surgery.

Burakovsky was injured last night while trying to block a Brendan Smith shot from the point. The puck struck Burakovsky’s right hand, causing it to swell and turn different colors on the bench.

Burakovsky did not return and Trotz said the Swede would “miss some time” after the game.

Zach Sanford will get the first opportunity to replace Burakovsky on the roster, despite only tallying three points in his last twelve games in Hershey.

Burakovsky doesn't need surgery. Sanford gets "first crack" at that spot. Vrana is another candidate to come up and play there, Trotz said.

— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) February 10, 2017

Former first-round pick Jakub Vrana will also be on the team’s radar for the rest of the season.