Capitals Defenseman Rasmus Sandin Returns to Lineup Against Blues

Washington Capitals defenseman Rasmus Sandin will return to the team’s lineup tonight when they face the St. Louis Blues, providing a significant boost to a struggling Capitals defense.

Sandin has missed the past five games due to an upper-body injury, and his return was confirmed by head coach Spencer Carbery following the team’s morning skate. “Yeah, he’ll play tonight,” Carbery said. “It’s a big boost. Missing him the last few games, have felt it a little bit.” The Capitals have lost four consecutive games, and Sandin’s presence is expected to stabilize the team’s defensive play.

The 25-year-old Swedish defender has been averaging 19:23 of ice time per game this season and has recorded two assists in his last three games before the injury. He will be paired with Trevor van Riemsdyk on the third defensive pairing. Sandin has also taken on an increased role on the penalty kill, averaging 1:27 of shorthanded ice time per game, a substantial increase from the 37 seconds he averaged last year. Carbery praised Sandin’s development in this area, noting his “stick, anticipation…and he’s done a good job.” You can find more information about the Washington Capitals on the official NHL website.

The Capitals went 1-3-1 during Sandin’s absence, with Declan Chisholm and Dylan McIlrath serving as healthy scratches tonight. The Blues, meanwhile, are coming off a 3-2 victory over the Edmonton Oilers yesterday, ending a seven-game losing streak. Last season, the Capitals and Blues split their two matchups, with St. Louis winning 5-2 in Washington. The Capitals are currently 6-6-1 on the season, and a win tonight could help them climb the NHL standings.

Carbery stated that Sandin is a “big part of our team, and he’s a well-rounded defenseman,” and the team anticipates his return will positively impact their performance moving forward.