Capitals Notebook: Oshie & Sandin Update, Optional Skate Before Road Trip

The Washington Capitals are headed on the road for two critical games, starting with a vital showdown against the Detroit Red Wings on Tuesday.

Before taking off, Washington held an optional practice, with several players opting to take maintenance days and get some rest in before the trip.

T.J. Oshie skated, though, and continues to take a step in the right direction and could be back as soon as Tuesday.

“I feel good,” Oshie said. “I wish I would have been able to come back a little sooner. Sitting out sucks.”

Head coach Spencer Carbery told reporters that Oshie will travel with the team and they will see if he’s available to play.

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Oshie has missed the last four games with an upper-body injury. Getting him back will be a major boost to the lineup, as he plays on the top line right wing and brings energy to the mix.

D.C.’s offense has taken a hit of late, managing no more than two goals in the latest stretch of its six-game losing streak.

Rasmus Sandin, who was injured in Sunday’s loss to the Ottawa Senators, did not skate and will not travel with the Capitals, meaning he will miss the next two games.

Related: Capitals Will Be Without Sandin For ‘Some Time’ After Defenseman Injured On Hard Hit vs. Senators

Washington remains one point out of a playoff spot and could benefit greatly from a win against Detroit to keep its hopes alive. There are five games left on the schedule, and each one counts with several teams still in the mix.

“We just got to play better,” John Carlson said bluntly.