The Capitals are prepping for a Sunday meeting with the struggling Sharks.
ARLINGTON, V.A. — Following a thrilling 3-2 shootout win the night before, the Washington Capitals got back to work with a skills-filled practice and Caps Fight Cancer skate with kids on Saturday.
Skills coach Kenny McCudden brought his famous BBQ smoker out on the ice and put it in front of his netminders as the players got to work on shooting and screens. Washington also ran through some basics ahead of Sunday's game against the San Jose Sharks.
Sonny Milano did not skate due to illness, but the hope is that he is good to go against San Jose. Charlie Lindgren took part in his second full practice and will back up Darcy Kuemper on Sunday, and Hunter Shepard will be returned to the AHL's Hershey Bears.
Nic Dowd did not take part in the practice but did skate with the team at the Caps Fight Cancer skate, taking the ice with kids battling cancer. He still has ways to go, but the team is hoping to get positive news on that front in the coming days. Spencer Carbery also said that his timeline may be extended given he hasn't practiced for a bit.
Joel Edmundson is also a ways away. as does Joel Edmundson. He was present for the Caps Fight Cancer skate but did not lace up the skates, and he has been skating on his own ahead of practices in a non-contact jersey but has not joined the teams since having hand surgery during training camp.
Max Pacioretty remains on the long-term injured reserve, but is expected to start skating soon. It will be his first time skating since suffering his second torn Achilles in a span of five months.
Washington hosts San Jose on Sunday.