Capitals Notebook: Van Riemsdyk Out After Hit From Rempe, Latest On Jensen & Sandin, Why Team Held Optional Ahead Of Elimination Game

The Washington Capitals took Saturday to regroup and reset, electing for a light optional skate with their backs against the wall heading into an elimination Game 4.

Head coach Spencer Carbery said that it boiled down to making Saturday a "recharge day," one where the team could hit reset and get some rest before another fight for its life.

"I think the way that we'll handle it as a staff is let today the dust settle and really take advantage of tomorrow. Guys understand the messaging of the same way it's been for multiple months is for us finding a way to win one game, and being energized and excited about that," Carbery said. "We're not gonna pretend to not understand the situation or scenario without there being a tomorrow, but I also know this group and learned that in these situations, you know what you're gonna get from the entire group."

At the optional skate, Washington saw Nick Jensen and Rasmus Sandin continue to progress, again skating in regular jerseys as they work toward a return from respective upper-body injuries following big hits. However, their statuses for Sunday remain unknown.

"They've been out so long now that it's just if they're able to go tomorrow, great, and we'll get them right back in there," Carbery said. "If they can't, it'll be status quo."

Meanwhile, Trevor van Riemsdyk, who left Game 3 following a high hit from Matt Rempe, is out and will not play. He did not skate on Saturday.

Vincent Iorio also remains out and is in a non-contact jersey.

The Capitals have one defenseman under NHL contract left in Hershey: Chase Priskie. However, he is not coming up to D.C. at this time. If Jensen and Sandin remain out, Hardy Häman Aktell will draw into the mix as the additional defenseman.

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Despite the circumstances, Carbery has been happy to see some of Washington's call-ups get more ice time and experience, and he's confident that they can continue to bring reliable minutes in the biggest game of the year.

"I'm happy for those guys, and I know it's hard to bring a lot of positives out of the situation and scenario right now and what we face... showing that they belong, we're really proud of the way that they've played and impressed, to be honest with you," Carbery said.

Game 4 is on Sunday at 8 p.m. at Capital One Arena. Washington must win to keep the season alive.