Capitals Notebook: Dubois Takes Major Step In Recovery, Roy Appears Ready, Sourdif Day-To-Day WIth Illness

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals got positive news on the Pierre-Luc Dubois front on Monday, as the center is officially back skating with the group after dealing with an illness.

Dubois, who has missed the last four games, was in a non-contact jersey and cycled in during rushes. Coach Spencer Carbery will see how he is and make a determination for his status against the Los Angeles Kings, though Washington isn't rushing anything.

"One you're back and illness-wise able to join the group and come into the facility, it's not about not feeling well. It's more about getting up to speed," Carbery said of Dubois being non-contact. "Exactly you said, when you've been off for that many days, just trying to get your legs back under you and be able to feel comfortable performing in an NHL game."

While Dubois is nearing a return, the team is still missing another key center in Justin Sourdif. Sourdif, who missed Saturday's game against the New Jersey Devils with an illness, did not skate on Monday and will miss Tuesday's meeting with the Kings. He is considered day-to-day.

With Dubois uncertain and Sourdif definitely out for Tuesday, Jonny Brodzinski remains up with the big club and was taking reps as the fourth line center between Anthony Beauvillier and Ryan Leonard.

On the blue line, Matt Roy is expected back sooner rather than later, as he skated again in a regular jersey with the group and was taking rushes on the top pairing. Roy had missed the last six games due to a lower-body injury he suffered in the second game of the season.

Washington hosts Los Angeles at 7 p.m. on Tuesday at Capital One Arena.