New development in Aliaksei Protas' injury sparks hope
The Washington Capitals are gearing up for Game 2 against the Montreal Canadiens tonight, and all eyes are on forward Aliaksei Protas as he continues to rehab from his skate blade injury.
Over the past week,
Aliaksei Protas has been gradually working his way back, easing into light skating sessions while wearing a non-contact jersey.
But in a surprising turn of events this morning, Protas took a major step forward in his recovery -- a development that has sparked renewed hope across Capitals Nation about his potential return to the ice.
Aliaksei Protas hits the ice wearing a regular jersey
Aliaksei Protas is back on the ice this morning, this time in a regular jersey. He skated on his own earlier and is now doing skills work with Kenny McCudden
Aliaksei Protas is on the ice before #ALLCAPS skate once again. Appears to be doing more. Normal jersey. So, progress.
In the video above,
Aliaksei Protas can be seen wearing a regular practice jersey -- a clear upgrade from the non-contact one he's worn all week.
Not only that, but he's putting noticeably more weight on his injured foot and taking part in high-tempo skills drills.
While it's unlikely Protas will suit up for the Capitals tonight, all signs point to his return being just around the corner.
He's still being closely monitored by the Capitals training staff, but it's encouraging to see him skating at near game speed again.
If his progress continues, don't be surprised if we see Protas back in the lineup later this week.
Previously on Capitals Insider
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AVRIL 23 | 54 ANSWERS New development in Aliaksei Protas' injury sparks hope Do you think Aliaksei Protas will play against the Montreal Canadiens tonight? |
Yes | 17 | 31.5 % |
No | 37 | 68.5 % |
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