Connor Brown Takes Ice For Capitals For First Time Since ACL Tear

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals got a great sign early Friday morning, as Connor Brown took the ice for some individual work and skating as he recovers from a torn ACL.

It is the first time Brown has been seen on the ice since tearing his ACL and undergoing surgery in late October. He did not stay on for the optional skate with his teammates, but it was still a promising sight.

Still, there are several steps to take going forward, including joining the group, upgrading to contact, getting in battle drills and repetition and more before being ready to play a game. There is no contact for Brown yet as he is still early in the process.

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Brown suffered the injury on Oct. 17 against the Vancouver Canucks, where he took a hard hit along the boards and went down in visible pain and put no weight on his right knee. He then underwent surgery and was put on a 6-8 month timeline. Back in January, Brown started to intensify his off-ice workouts.

The 29-year-old played in just four games for D.C. this season. He was acquired back in the offseason in exchange for a 2024 second-round pick.

Brown will be a UFA this summer, as he had just one year left on his deal at $3.6 million entering the season. He has been on the long-term injured reserve.