Caps defenseman Matt Niskanen played 10 minutes, 20 seconds on Wednesday night — more than 12 minutes below his average. That’s because a nasty collision with Philadelphia’s Radko Gudas forced Niskanen out in the second period.
The Caps report Niskanen has suffered a lower-body injury and will be re-evaluated on Thursday.
In the second period, Niskanen fell into a kind of four-man pick with Gudas, Wayne Simmonds (in pursuit), and Marcus Johansson (heading in the other direction). Niskanen collided with Gudas’ outstretched knee and collapsed. Simmonds fell upon him from behind.
Another angle. This one emphasizing Gudas’ move to make the hit.
And the aftermath.
Niskanen headed down the tunnel. He returned for one shift later in the period, but did not return.
#Caps Matt Niskanen (lower body) will not return to tonight's game and will be re-evaluated tomorrow
— CapitalsPR (@CapitalsPR) February 23, 2017
Speaking with the Washington Post’s Isabelle Khurshudyan after the game, head coach Barry Trotz was optimistic.
Trotz said he doesn't think injury to Niskanen is too serious. Initially, he was held out as a precaution. Will have a better clue tomorrow.
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) February 23, 2017
That’s good news, as Niskanen’s role on the team is crucial. Along with Dmitry Orlov, he’s eating big minutes and doing exceptionally well with them. A clean bill of health in a short turnaround would save the Caps from a harsh reckoning.
2/23 update: GM Brian MacLellan says Niskanen’s injury is not serious and is day-to-day.
MacLellan said Niskanen's injury is day-to-day. Not too serious. They're going to be patient with it though.
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) February 23, 2017
