The Capitals lost a key center early on against the Devils.

WASHINGTON — The Washington Capitals are currently operating without the services of Nic Dowd, as he will not return to Tuesday's contest against the New Jersey Devils with an upper-body injury.

Dowd last played with 2:17 left in the opening frame when he took a hit from Tyler Toffoli in the offensive zone. He finished his shift but got off before his linemates and did not return to play.

It is unclear what the nature of the injury is at this time, nor is it clear whether or not it's related to the upper-body injury he suffered at the beginning of the season. Dowd also underwent core surgery over the summer.

With Dowd out, the Capitals are down to three centers. Connor McMichael has taken some shifts on Dowd's fourth line.

Losing Dowd is a huge blow to D.C., as the defensive forward has proven to be one of the team's most reliable pivots. He plays a key role on the powerhouse fourth line, and also kills penalties and takes a lot of defensive zone face-offs.

Washington is also already without Evgeny Kuznetsov as he receives treatment from the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program, so not having Dowd available hurts more as well.

Through 45 games this season, Dowd has eight goals and eight assists and leads all skaters with a plus/minus rating of plus-8.

His name has also come up in trade talks as a piece that could fetch a strong return if D.C. elects to sell. The discussion changes, though, if he's unavailable due to injury.