The Caps are headed to Nashville, where they take on the undefeated Predators (3-0) on Saturday night at 7:30 p.m. They do so without defenseman Mike Green, who injured his right shoulder in the third period of Wednesday’s victory over the New York Islanders.
Green went in for a check on New York forward and came away from the play holding his right side. He hasn’t practiced since, but Washington coach Bruce Boudreau said he still considers Green “day-to-day”. Fellow defenseman Tom Poti (lower-body injury) skated at practice on Friday, but will be a game-time decision, according to Boudreau. If he can’t play that necessitates a recall from AHL Hershey.
Meanwhile, Boudreau also must decide whom to start in goal. Michal Neuvirth has played well in his four starts. But Semyon Varlamov is finally healthy after beginning the season on injured reserve. Will he get the nod in Nashville? Boudreau wouldn’t say and Varlamov said he hasn’t been told anything yet. If he’s ready it makes sense to get him some work. Either way, the season-long battle for playing time between these two young goalies won’t be decided anytime soon. As for managing the egos inherent in any NHL goalie battle?
“They’re only 22 years old,” Boudreau said. “I don’t think the egos should be that big.”
Caps forward Matt Bradley (lower-body injury) and center Marcus Johansson (foot) are also game-time decisions. They both skated on Friday. Mike Knuble missed practice for a family matter, but will play on Saturday night.
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