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Washington Capitals defenseman Rasmus Sandin left Wednesday night’s game against the Buffalo Sabres with what appeared to be a knee injury. The injury occurred at the end of the second period.

With the Caps in the defensive zone, a shot by Buffalo deflected into Sandin’s knee, sending the newest member of the team’s blueline to the locker room prematurely.

Rasmus Sandin was helped off the ice after blocking this heavy slap shot from Jokiharju#ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/szjJbNdLIM

— Hockey Daily 365 l NHL Highlights (@HockeyDaily365) March 16, 2023

The 23-year old rearguard was acquired by the Capitals ahead of the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline and has quickly established himself as a key component of the backend, making history in the process. The former first-round pick of the Toronto Maple Leafs has recorded 9 Points (1G, 8A) in his first five games in a Capitals sweater, with his first eight being the most by any player in their first four games in Washington. He has also averaged over 25 minutes a night.

The young defenseman would return to the game in the third period, avoiding a big loss to the team.

By Michael Fleetwood