Capitals Injury Updates: Latest On Oshie, Fehervary, Backstrom & Wilson

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals got some key injury updates at Wednesday's optional skate, and they could be seeing a number of key players making their return sooner rather than later.

Martin Fehervary skated in a non-contact jersey for the second time, while Tom Wilson also continued skating in a regular sweater. T.J. Oshie took the ice for the first time since his upper-body injury and was in a non-contact jersey.

"I feel like a lot of guys are close… Certainly all positive signs," Laviolette said.

Fehervary has not played since suffering an apparent arm injury on Dec. 3 against the Calgary Flames. He has four points in 26 games so far this season, along with a +/- of plus-1.

READ MORE ON WHN: Tom Wilson Appears To Be Nearing Return For Washington Capitals

Wilson is also getting closer, as he's been skating in a contact jersey over this last stretch nd getting stronger with each skate. Laviolette ruled him out for Thursday, but did not provide a further timeline, which doesn't necessarily rule him out for a return in the near future.

Nicklas Backstrom is making progress, but he will have to wait to skate after going into COVID-19 protocol. Laviolette said it's not a major setback to his recovery, though.

Oshie, meanwhile, was in high spirits as he skated and showed off some high energy and moves at the optional. He was showcasing his usual energy and skating well, and Laviolette said his skating in the non-contact jersey was a step in the right direction for No. 77. He has missed the last three games since suffering an upper-body injury against the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he pulled up in apparent pain while backchecking. Oshie remains out and is not expected to return for Thursday's game, but he is not on the injured reserve at this time.

John Carlson, who took a puck to the face on Friday, did not skate and is at home recovering. He was discharged from the hospital on Christmas Eve and is out long-term.

Washington also got positive news on the Carl Hagelin front, as he tested his limits and skated for a bit before the optional. The Capitals also see Beck Malenstyn closing in on a return, and he's headed down to the Hershey Bears for conditioning.