Capitals’ Carlson Recovering At Home, Wife Shares Update & Photo

After a scary scene at Capital One Arena on Friday and a night in the hospital following a puck to the face, Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson is at home and appears to be on the road to recovery.

Carlson's wife, Gina, shared a photo of the 32-year-old defenseman at home on Christmas Day. He was all smiles as he posed with his three sons in front of the tree, and he didn't appear to have any cuts or stitches on his face. Gina clarified on Tuesday that the picture of Carlson was in fact taken on Christmas morning, just two days after the incident.

"I took this on Christmas morning, the boys got their retros from Santa that morning. Thought I'd clarify that for you guys," Gina wrote on her story. "A huge thank you for the prayers and thoughts sent to John. I could write a book on what a warrior he is. We've both felt so touched by the immense amount of kindness and thoughtful messages and calls. John is lucky to have such an incredible community of people who have showed genuine care for him in the last few days — thank you all so much."

The 32-year-old took a Brenden Dillon shot to the right side of his face in the third period against the Jets. He immediately fell to the ice and was bleeding profusely, and got immediate assistance from his linemates and trainers. He left the game with a towel over his face and was transported to a local hospital for "precautionary evaluation." He was discharged on Christmas Eve.

Despite the fact that he didn't require surgery, Carlson is still out "long term," per head coach Peter Laviolette. He is on the injured reserve, meaning he'll miss the next two games and seven days, but Laviolette said his timeline will go beyond that.