The Capitals got some positive news on the injury front on Tuesday.
ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals got a positive sign at Tuesday's practice, as injured defenseman Matt Roy both took the ice in a regular jersey, upgrading from non-contact.
Roy skated on a second pairing with Rasmus Sandin, and it appears he's on track to return to the lineup Wednesday against the Nashville Predators, though nothing's been confirmed yet at this time.
The 29-year-old has missed the last 10 games for Washington due to a lower-body injury he suffered in the second period of the team's season-opening loss to the New Jersey Devils.
Roy, who signed a six-year contract to come to D.C. in the summer, hasn't gotten to showcase what he can do yet but is a key part of the team's plan on the top-4.
While Roy returned, Jakob Chychrun appears to need a bit more time, as he did not skate with the team but did participate in skills work ahead of practice.
Chychrun has missed the last three games after suffering an upper-body injury in the first period of the Capitals' 5-3 win over the New York Rangers last Tuesday. He has been an important part of the mix so far for Washington, picking up four points and a plus/minus rating of plus-5 while skating on the top pairing with John Carlson.
Both Roy and Chychrun are eligible to return Wednesday against Nashville but remain on the IR at this time.
Getting both blueliners back will be huge for the 8-3-0 Capitals, who are coming off a tough loss to the Carolina Hurricanes. Both provide steady minutes and are vital to have on the backend, while also showcasing potential to move the puck up ice and contribute offensively.