Capitals’ McMichael Set to Return Feb. 25 as Carlson Misses Practice for Maintenance

Overview

• Connor McMichael said he will come off injured reserve and rejoin the lineup when play resumes Wednesday against Philadelphia.
• He practiced without restrictions after a Jan. 29 injury that sidelined him for the final four games before the Olympic break, and he has 31 points in 55 games this season.
• The team has nearly a week to complete the formal activation, which will require a corresponding roster transaction.
• John Carlson did not skate Thursday for maintenance after leaving the last pre-break game with a lower-body issue, leaving his short-term outlook less certain.
• Practice combinations suggested McMichael remaining on the wing as competition ramps up with Pierre-Luc Dubois back, while potential waivers for depth forwards were described as possibilities in the coming days.