As the Capitals hit the road for a six-game swing, they’re starting to get some key pieces back-and just in time. Rookie forward Justin Sourdif is off injured reserve and appears set to rejoin the lineup against the Avalanche, a welcome return for a Washington squad that’s been grinding through injuries.
Sourdif had been sidelined after taking a puck to the face last week in Nashville, missing several games in the process. But before the injury, he was hitting his stride.
With 10 points in his last seven games, Sourdif wasn’t just contributing-he was stepping up in a big way. His production has helped fill the gap left by Pierre-Luc Dubois, who’s still recovering from adductor surgery he underwent in early November.
For a rookie, Sourdif’s poise and playmaking have been impressive. He’s shown a knack for finding space and making smart plays in tight areas, and his return gives the Capitals another weapon as they try to build momentum away from home.
However, not all the injury news is positive. Tom Wilson remains on injured reserve, and Ivan Miroshnichenko continues to stay up with the big club-a sign that Wilson isn’t quite ready to return.
Wilson has missed the last six games after suffering a lower-body injury on January 3 during a collision with Connor Murphy. He landed awkwardly on his right leg and has been working his way back ever since.
The good news? He’s progressed to contact and is participating in battle drills, a key step toward getting back into game shape.
The 31-year-old has been a driving force for Washington this season, leading the team with 42 points through 41 games. His physical presence, scoring touch, and leadership have been crucial-not just for the Capitals, but also for Team Canada, as he prepares to represent his country at the upcoming Winter Olympic Games in Milan Cortina.
For now, the Capitals will have to keep pushing without Wilson, but getting Sourdif back is a significant lift. As the team navigates this long road trip, they’ll need every bit of depth and resilience they can muster.