BALLSTON, Va. - Washington Capitals defenseman Mike Green said after practicing for the third consecutive day at Kettler Capitals Iceplex that he is hoping for a return as soon as next week.

"I'll skate tomorrow again, see how I feel," Green said. "You never know, maybe I could play [this weekend], but it looks like next week."

Green has been out of action since November 11 with a strained right groin muscle. While also suffering from a twisted right ankle earlier this season, Green has missed all but eight games.

Both Green and head coach Dale Hunter said that they are being cautious with the former's injury, though Green is having a hard time watching.

"It's been frustrating watching hockey," he said. "It's boring."

"I think we want to play this safe," Green continued. "Obviously I've been out for a long time and want to get back, but I want to make sure I'm ready to play. No need to put myself in a dangerous situation if I'm not ready."

When Green is ready to return, however, Hunter is also ready to finally see Green work.

"He's a great player and he's going to add offense to our team," Hunter said. "He can play a lot of minutes. Definitely any coach would be pretty excited to get him back. But we've got to be smart. We cant get him hurt again."