Chychrun Returns To Capitals-Panthers After Appearing To Take Skate To Hand

WASHINGTON — The Washington Capitals appear to have avoided a major injury scare on the blue line, as Jakob Chychrun returned to Saturday's game against the Florida Panthers after exiting with injury in the first period.

Chychrun was skating and went down in the corner, where he appeared to take a skate to the hand/wrist area right. He left the ice and did not play the final 8:09 of the first period.

The 26-year-old returned to open the second period.

Chychrun is a key part of the lineup and would be a major loss. Through 64 games this season, Chychrun has 18 goals and 25 assists for 43 points, along with a plus/minus of plus-24.

This story is being updated in real time.