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Braden Holtby practices, says vision has improved a lot since suffering eye injury against Blue Jackets

By Ian Oland

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January 13, 2019 1:28 pm

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.

Capitals video coach Brett Leonhardt dressed in his full goalie gear just in case Holtby was unable to go.

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.

Holtby told reporters that his vision has greatly improved since last night.

Other news from practice includes Lars Eller missing the skate due to an upper-body injury.

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.

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