NHL Injury Update: Washington Capitals face Justin Sourdif's injury ahead of Montreal Canadiens clash

The Washington Capitals are once again facing the problem of injuries, as Justin Sourdif's presence or absence is the main issue to discuss before their duel against the Montreal Canadiens. As changes in the lineup are about to happen and the fight for the playoffs is still on, the team from Washington is compelled to modify its plans again; thus, the condition of Sourdif is a pressing issue for the coach and the fans alike.

The Sourdif injury is an issue that the Capitals have to face, and it is quite serious, especially with the Canadiens coming to Capital One Arena. The situation is changing dynamically, and the Capitals are careful, realizing that short-term injuries can develop into long-term ones very quickly during a congested schedule.

Why Justin Sourdif’s absence matters for Washington Capitals right now

Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery has announced that Justin Sourdif is day-to-day and that he will be absent after suffering an upper-body injury during his encounter with the Nashville Predators. The incident took place in the second period when a puck that had been deflected hit Sourdif in the face during a forecheck, thus sending him to leave the game prematurely. He was on the ice for a very short time and did not come back as Washington lost 3-2.
Sourdif's absence presents a bad scenario as he has been one of the key contributors among Washington's forwards recently. The 23-year-old has accumulated 10 points in his last seven games and is having a breakout year in his first full NHL season. After playing 45 games, he has scored nine goals and made ten assists, besides being a major contributor defensively, as is shown by his +15 rating.
Connor McMichael is likely to move to center with Sourdif being out, and Sonny Milano will come back to the team. If the injury lasts longer than expected, then a call-up is still an option. On the other hand, Jakob Chychrun is a decision of the day because of sickness, while Tom Wilson is still out, but Carbery said he is “getting closer” to coming back.

The Capitals have to depend on their flexibility and depth to remain competitive as injuries keep piling up. The situation of Sourdif will be watched closely, as his coming back could give a timely boost to Washington’s fight to stay in the Eastern Conference.

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