(Photo: @washcaps)

The Washington Capitals returned to practice at Kettler this morning, following a day off for the team on Sunday.  The Capitals (18-6-1) will look to rebound from their loss in Winnipeg on Saturday, when they host the Detroit Red Wings (15-8-4) on Tuesday night at Verizon Center.  Puck drop is 7:30 PM.

Morning Skate
Karl Alzner was not at practice today, out with upper body injury sustained in the game against Winnipeg on Saturday. Alzner is currently listed as day-today.

The Capitals called up defenseman Aaron Ness (#55) from Hershey on Sunday.  According to Bears sources, Bears Head Coach Troy Mann said in his post game comments Sunday evening that Aaron Ness was called up for Karl Alzner, and that Ness is  expected to play on Tuesday.

As per Isabelle Khurshudyan, Brooks Orpik left the ice after a drill in practice. Seemed frustrated, but could be nothing. Still wearing a non-contact jersey.

Marcus Johansson was not at practice today and is listed day-to-day.  Johansson was scratched with a lower body injury for the Capitals last game in Winnipeg.

As per Isabelle Khurshudyan, looks like Dmitri Orlov and Matt Niskanen are together in practice.  It looks like this could be the second defensive line pairing for Tuesday night’s game against the Red Wings.

As per Isabelle Khurshudyan, Trotz said it’s an upper-body injury for Alzner. Said he’ll know in the morning if he or Johansson are playing.  Trotz on Orpik: “He’s going back to have some more tests done.” Said he’s frustrated the injury isn’t coming around.   For who to call up, Trotz was between Ness and Connor Carrick. Went with who was more consistent over last 15 or so games.

(Photo: @washcaps)

News and Notes

• No team has played fewer games than Washington. Boston and Minnesota have played as many (25).
• The Capitals have been involved in eight coaches challenges in 25 games (they are 1-for-8)
• Karl Alzner‘s 401-consecutive games played streak may be in jeopardy, due to current lower body injury.
• Montreal Canadiens placed former Capital Alexander Semin on waivers today.

Standings

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With Brooks Orpik out, John Carlson taking on leadership role for the defense (WaPo)
With or without Carey Price, Capitals not taking Montreal lightly
Capitals piece together clues about ‘Mr. Game 7’ (WaPo)

(ESPN.Com)