Here's everything to know as the Capitals begin to prep for the Rangers.
ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals kicked off their playoff run with an optional skate at MedStar Capitals Iceplex, where they got some encouraging updates before Game 1 on Sunday against the New York Rangers.
Rasmus Sandin and Nick Jensen, who both missed the final games of the season following big hits, both took the ice ahead of the optional, and both are trending in the right direction and could potentially be available for that series opener.
"For sure there is (a chance they could play on Sunday). We'll just see how the week progresses and then make a decision once we get to New York," head coach Spencer Carbery said.
Meanwhile, a handful of players took the ice for some optional work, while several opted for rest.
Max Pacioretty, Hendrix Lapierre, Ivan Miroshnichenko, Aliaksei Protas Mike Sgarbossa Dylan McIlrath, Alex Alexeyev, Vincent Iorio, Lucas Johansen and Darcy Kuemper all skated.
The Capitals also hosted their first media availability of the Stanley Cup Playoffs, where Alex Ovechkin, Charlie Lindgren and more discussed the upcoming run.
"That's why we're fighting all year, for that spot," Ovechkin said. "It's a fun time. This group, there's been ups and downs, trades, all the situations, and we fight through it and we make it to the playoffs. That's the most important thing for us."
Charlie Lindgren also discussed how it feels to be going up against his brother and what it'll be like to play in his first NHL playoff series.
"I've dreamed about this for 20 years, legitimately," Lindgren said. "Just to have the chance to play a lot of games, and just the faith that this team has put in me, I appreciate it greatly. I've had an absolute blast this whole season."