Washington Capitals defenseman Alexandar Alexeyev skated for the first time since suffering an upper-body injury (possibly a concussion) in the 2019 NHL Prospects Tournament on September 8 with equipment on but did not do any drills on Saturday. Head coach Todd Reirden said this is just the first step for the 19-year old, who was advised by a trainer while skating.

The video of the hit can be found below:

#CapsProspect Alex Alexeyev would go down at the conclusion of the second period. He would eventually be helped from the ice, but walked to the room under his own power. Caps-Preds tied 1-1 after two periods. pic.twitter.com/GGXGEmgb5E
— NoVa Caps (@NoVa_Caps) September 8, 2019

Alexeyev wore a light-blue no-contact jersey. Reirden did not say whether or not it is likely that he will get in any preseason games. Alexeyev will not play Saturday night when the Capitals host the Carolina Hurricanes at Capital One Arena (7 PM ET, NBC Sports Washington). The Capitals have three preseason games left after Saturday night’s and will likely use the last one as a dress rehearsal for opening night as they always do.

Reirden also said that center Lars Eller will be a full participant in practice on Monday after taking part in Saturday’s morning skate. Defenseman Michal Kempny (hamstring) also skated with the team in a light-blue no-contact jersey.

By Harrison Brown