Report: Injury updates on key Caps players

The Washington Capitals aren't off to the start they'd hoped for - and a part of their early struggles stem from a slew of injuries to important players, most notably Matt Niskanen.

Niskanen was placed on long-term injury reserve in October and was ineligible to play until November 7th. While the 7th has come and passed, Niskanen's return appears to be imminent.

He finally rejoined the team in practice - sporting a non-contact jersey. He won't be ready for tonight's matchup against the Pittsburgh Penguins, but there's a remote possibility that he returns on Sunday when the Capitals take on the Edmonton Oilers.

If not, it seems quite likely that he'll be back early next week.

Brett Connolly and Tyler Graovac are two other players that have been sidelined for some time now, but they're back at practice and playing with full contact. It's unclear if they'll rejoin the lineup tonight, but Sunday seems like a very real possibility.

With these players returning to action, competition will stiffen for roster spots, as multiple players will be forced down to the AHL.