Despite the winter storm blanketing several inches of snow around the area, the Washington Capitals held practice Sunday morning, a day after losing to the Columbus Blue Jackets 2-1.
There were several notable developments at MedStar Capitals Iceplex — most importantly the health of Braden Holtby.
Holtby returned to the ice after leaving the Blue Jackets game in the second period due to a high stick to the eye.
Braden Holtby is on the ice this morning. Took a stick in the eye last night.
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) January 13, 2019
Braden Holtby is on the ice going through normal routine before a practice.
So, apparently OK after taking stick to the eye last night.
— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) January 13, 2019
Capitals video coach Brett Leonhardt dressed in his full goalie gear just in case Holtby was unable to go.
Brett Leonhardt is dressed as third goalie for Capitals practice, but Holtby is staying on for full practice
— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) January 13, 2019
After the game last night, Capitals head coach Todd Reirden was “very concerned” about Holtby’s injury.
“Obviously, didn’t return to the game and he’ll be getting evaluated later tonight still,” Reirden said. “Saw the play initially from the bench, then was able to see the replay of it. And then our initial discussions with our trainer, and doctors, you know that’s a serious thing.”
But after practice, Reirden said the team does not envision calling up a goaltender from AHL Hershey.
Reirden said Caps don't plan on recalling another goaltender. Not sure if Holtby starts tomorrow (first game of a back-to-back set), but seems that team avoided anything too serious in what was obviously a scary situation.
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) January 13, 2019
Holtby told reporters that his vision has greatly improved since last night.
Holtby said his vision wasn't good enough for him to play last night, but has improved a lot and continues to progress. https://t.co/bTtQLMJKNm
— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) January 13, 2019
Other news from practice includes Lars Eller missing the skate due to an upper-body injury.
Eller is not practicing. Maintenance day for an upper-body injury.
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) January 13, 2019
Defenseman Christian Djoos also returned to the ice and skated before practice. Djoos needed surgery for compartment syndrome in his left thigh in mid-December. Djoos could be out weeks or months due to the injury.
Christian Djoos sighting! pic.twitter.com/sijqgGlmQT
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) January 13, 2019
