The Hershey Bears played their second game of the preseason Saturday, taking on the Wilkes-Barre/Scranton Penguins at Giant Center. Hershey won in overtime 2-1.

Capitals 2018 first-round pick Alex Alexeyev was cleared to play and skated on the Bears’ first defensive pairing with Erik Burgdoerfer.

Lots of storylines here. Moulson’s first time in a Bears jersey. Fox gets to take the ice at home. Alexeyev healthy and cleared to play. #HBH https://t.co/N7zZZ3T4XR

— Zack Fisch (@zackfisch) September 28, 2019

The Capitals’ 2018 first-round pick was officially sent to Hershey on Wednesday after he didn’t play in a single preseason game during Caps Training Camp. Alexeyev was diagnosed with a concussion on September 8th after a nasty hit from Predators defenseman Josh Healey at a rookie camp tournament.

“It’s a shame because he sacrificed this summer and he came back (to Washington) as early as anybody,” Capitals head coach Todd Reirden said after the Capitals loaned Alexeyev to Hershey. “He put time and effort into it. We’ve already seen changes in his physique. His testing’s already moved up. He’s a guy is important to have us growing and keep getting better.”

Steve Richmond, the director of player development, believes Alexeyev could see some time in Washington this season if he can continue to evolve and stay healthy.

“He could play [NHL] games this year if he keeps progressing,” Richmond said. “He played 30—35 minutes (in junior) if they need him no problem. On the power play, he just dominated. It’s time. He could have probably played in the American League last year.”

Headline image: Cara Bahniuk