Sammi’s Daily: Key Capitals Updates, Torts Slams Flyers Room, NHL Rumors

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals informal skates got their biggest name yet in attendance, as Alex Ovechkin joined the group on Friday.

Per his agent, Ovechkin flew back to the United States on Wednesday. He is now officially part of the ever-expanding group of Capitals joining the team’s informal practices ahead of training camp. Meanwhile, as Ovechkin makes his way back, Carl Hagelin continues to make strides as well as he takes a big step forward in his recovery.

Beyond D.C., NHL free agency continues, and some teams are ready for major change in 2022-23.

Here are all the latest news and notes from D.C. and across the NHL:

Washington Capitals Links

• Carl Hagelin is out of a non-contact sweater and is making major strides in his recovery. (WHN)
• Speaking of Hagelin, the Capitals are rallying around him as he looks to come back from a ruptured choroid that permanently altered his vision. (WHN)
• Charlie Lindgren joined Washington’s informal practices, and he also has a brand new paint job. (WHN)
• Here’s everything else to know from the Capitals informal skates. (WHN)
• Alex Ovechkin is officially in the DMV and on the ice for Washington. (WHN)

NHL Links

• John Tortorella slammed the Philadelphia Flyers locker room culture and didn’t hold back in a new interview. (WHN)
• Carey Price remains on the LTIR, and amid talk of his career coming to an end amid a tough few weeks, he posted a heartfelt message. Montreal Canadiens (MHN)
• Are the Penguins headed for a rebuild? Well… maybe, especially with the Metropolitan Division heating up. Pittsburgh Penguins (PHN)
• Will Bruce Boudreau, J.T. Miller and more get the Canucks to the postseason? Some bold predictions. Vancouver Canucks (VHN)
• Jake Virtanen could return to the NHL after his not-guilty verdict… are the Edmonton Oilers among the teams interested? (THW)

Sammi’s Top Shelf Takes

• Aliaksei Protas looks a lot stronger and somehow… bigger. I expect a strong year from him, whether that be down in Hershey or up in the District.
• Hagelin’s comeback will create some cap implications, but it is truly inspiring to see him back on the ice and battling. Not just so he can return, but so that he can truly make an impact when he comes back.
• Happy birthday to Capitals 1984 first-round pick and legend Kevin Hatcher, who turns 56 today.
• Brett Connolly is still skating with Washington before heading overseas to Switzerland to begin his new deal with HC Lugano.
• Matthieu Perreault has retired at the age of 34.