Capitals Provide Updates On Backstrom, Wilson, Oshie & Orlov

ARLINGTON, V.A. — After a rough road trip and ahead of a big game against the defending Stanley Cup champion Colorado Avalanche, the Washington Capitals got some great news on the injury front.

First, Nicklas Backstrom was out on the ice for the entire morning skate, in full gear and wearing a non-contact sweater. It marked his first full team practice, as he had been skating on his own with Tom Wilson. Backstrom underwent hip resurfacing surgery to address a chronic hip issue, a procedure that’s ended the career of some players, back on June 17.

Head coach Peter Laviolette provided further updates on Backstrom and company, and said it was positive to see No. 19 back out there.

“It was good. It’s part of the process where they do a lot of stuff behind this wall. And then they do stuff that we don’t necessarily see on the ice, and they progress and progress and progress,” Laviolette said. “And that’s the next progression is to get out with our guys and start to move a little bit. Real positive to see that.”

READ MORE ON WHN: Nicklas Backstrom Opens Up About Hip Surgery, Optimist About Return To Washington Capitals

As for Wilson, he is still recovering and rehabilitating as he works his way back from ACL surgery he had on his left knee in May after going down in Game 1 of the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs against the Florida Panthers. Laviolette said that he’s also making strides.

“He’s doing good, he’s doing a lot of work behind the wall,” Laviolette added. “He’s been out there on days when you don’t notice it, like today. But he’s progressing and he’s moving along really well.”

T.J. Oshie was also skated in a non-contact jersey, and Dmitry Orlov was also on the ice in a regular jersey. Oshie has been out since suffering a lower-body injury on Oct. 29 against the Nashville Predators. Orlov is also dealing with a lower-body injury and will miss his seventh straight game on Saturday.

“They’re really good,” Laviolette said. “Good to see both of them out there. The fact that they’re out here grinding a little. You can just kind of put the math together yourselves. The fact that they’re out here grinding a little bit more tells you that they’re a little bit ahead of one guy or maybe a little ahead of another guy. Still no timetables, but it’s nice to see them out there competing and battling a little bit.”