Caps defensman Matt Niskanen left last night’s game in the second period after colliding with Flyers defenseman Radko Gudas. He left the game with what appeared to be a left knee injury. Niskanen would not return to the game. 

Capitals General Manager Brian MacLellan updated the media Thursday afternoon at Kettler, stating that Niskanen’s injury did not appear to be too serious, and he is officially listed as day-to-day.

Niskanen is day-to-day with a lower body injury, MacLellan said. Team will be cautious with him, however.

— Tarik El-Bashir (@TarikCSN) February 23, 2017

Niskanen and Brooks Orpik did not particpate in Thursday’s practice at Kettler.

Maintenance day/lower body for Orpik at Caps’ practice today. Niskanen (Iower) also not practicing.

— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) February 23, 2017

MacLellan said there are no current plans to bring up newly acquired Tom Gilbert right now. The Capitals want him to play at Hershey, but he might get him some games with the Caps before playoffs.

Barry Trotz provided an update after practice saying that Niskanen could potentially be back on the ice as early as tomorrow, but is still listed as day-to-day. He said the team might call up a blueliner for insurance purposes but not Tom Gilbert. They want to get him playing time in Hershey first.

Trotz said Niskanen could be back on the ice as early as tomorrow, but is day to day, Might call up a D as insurance. Probably not Gllbert.

— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) February 23, 2017

By Jon Sorensen
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