Alex Burakovsky is back!
The Capitals best-kept-secret is back after a lengthy absence because of a broken hand. He will rejoin the excellent and under-appreciated line with Lars "L-Train" Eller and Brett "Don't Call me Tim" Connolly.
In total, Burakovsky missed 15 games and the Caps were 7-6-2 without him. Considering that they were the best team in the NHL with him in the linup, that's quite the stark difference.
It's just a coincidence though. Probably.
Still, this will be the first time that the Capitals will dress their optimal lineup since they acquired Shattenkirk.
Here's some more big news:
The @Capitals can become the first team to clinch a berth in the #StanleyCup Playoffs. pic.twitter.com/369pY6mACF
— NHL Public Relations (@PR_NHL) March 18, 2017
Of course, the Capitals have had a 100% chance to make the Playoffs for weeks, according to various Twitter probability dudes, but this makes it official.
Oh the fun we'll have!
Tonight's game will be against the Lightning, who will be without four of their best players: Namestink, Johnson, Stamkos and Paquette. Additionally, the coach had to come out and say that Palat was OK to suit up.
So, beating them tonight and hoping for a Leafs' win would be what I would do if I was a Caps fan.