The Washington Capitals could have two big players back in the mix for Game 4 against the Montreal Canadiens, and may have avoided a major injury scare, too.
Both Logan Thompson and Aliaksei Protas are game-time decisions for Sunday, coach Spencer Carbery told reporters in Montreal, as the team will see how each feels before game time and make a decision from there.
Thompson had left Game 3 with injury after a collision with Dylan Strome in his crease sent him hard to the ice. The 28-year-old netminder needed help leaving the ice before he was relieved by Charlie Lindgren, and didn't take part in Saturday's optional practice.
While Thompson was a full go and in the starter's net at the morning skate on Sunday, he left the ice with Lindgren, and it remains up in the air as to whether or not he will start. On Saturday, signs pointed to Lindgren starting with no update on Thompson, though nothing was set in stone.
Having Thompson back in net would be a welcome sign for Washington, as he's a major reason the team is up 2-1 to open the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Through three games so far against the Canadiens, he has a .917 save percentage. Still, if Thompson doesn't start, the team has all the faith in Lindgren.
Charlie Lindgren Knows What He's Capable Of. He's Ready To Show The Capitals As He Takes Over For Injured Logan Thompson
Charlie Lindgren was seated among the fanbase at Bell Centre, the usual setting for backup goaltenders, taking in a raucous Game 3 between the Washington Capitals and Montreal Canadiens as he saw Logan Thompson go down in visible pain.
Meanwhile, Protas, who hasn't played since April 4 after a skate cut to the foot, was a full go at Saturday's practice and took part in Sunday's morning skate. He appears ready to return to the lineup, though Carbery won't confirm anything as he plays his cards close to the vest.
Protas, who had a career-high 30 goals and 36 assists for 66 points in 76 games with Washington this season, plays a pivotal role at 5-on-5 and on the penalty kill and would be a huge addition with the Capitals looking to rebound after a disappointing defeat in Game 3.
Puck drop is at 6:30 p.m. at Bell Centre.