Capitals Prepare for Wild Challenge Amid Injury Setbacks

Washington, D.C. — The Washington Capitals continue their four-game homestand tonight against the Minnesota Wild, the only time the Wild will visit the District this season. After starting the season with two losses against Metropolitan Division teams, Washington is looking to improve its record against Western Conference opponents.

Despite a slow start in first periods this season, Capitals coach Spencer Carbery hopes to see a more energized performance tonight. “I would absolutely like to see that, without a doubt,” Carbery said. “This is a good test for us because they are three Western teams we are unfamiliar with. There’s no animosity or buzz like when we play teams like the Rangers or the Penguins.”

The Capitals have struggled against the Wild, going 1-5-2 in their last eight matchups. Their only victory during that span was a shootout win at home in October 2023, shortly after Carbery took over as head coach. Meanwhile, Minnesota enters the game with a powerful power play, scoring 10 goals in its first four games.

Leading that effort are Kirill Kaprizov and Matt Boldy, who sit atop the NHL’s power play scoring leaderboard. Carbery noted Minnesota’s versatility in attack, highlighting their effective puck retrieval and ability to convert multiple scoring opportunities. “They can attack in many different ways, making it hard to defend against them,” he explained.

In roster news, the Capitals lost defenseman Vincent Iorio to the San Jose Sharks on waivers. Iorio, who was drafted by Washington in 2021, played nine regular-season games and participated in both of the Hershey Bears’ Calder Cup championship-winning seasons. Carbery described his departure as bittersweet. “I’m happy for Vinnie, but it’s a tough loss for us,” he stated.

Center Pierre-Luc Dubois is also out of tonight’s game due to a lower-body injury sustained during a previous match against the New York Rangers. “We handle them very carefully,” Carbery mentioned about managing players’ health. The Capitals are hopeful to capitalize on their home advantage against a tired Wild team.

Logan Thompson is expected to start in goal for Washington, sporting a strong save percentage in previous appearances this season. The Capitals aim to secure a much-needed victory after their inconsistent start to the season.