The Washington Capitals (11-7-1, 23 points) host the Winnipeg Jets (8-9-3, 19 points) Wednesday evening with a chance to redeem themselves. Washington lost to Winnipeg last Thursday, its third defeat in what would become a four-game losing skid prior to Monday's 4-3 victory against the Phoenix Coyotes.
But the Capitals won't have their full complement of players available, as coach Bruce Boudreau has benched winger Joel Ward for Wednesday's game, reports Chuck Gormley. Ward overslept Tuesday and arrived late for a team meeting, and so must face the consequences. It's part of Boudreau's emphasis on accountability. In the past, Gormley says, Bourdreau would fine players for tardiness, but would not suspend them "unless it was chronic."
In 19 games this season, Ward has tallied four goals and four assists, with a plus-minus ratio of plus-six. His absence means Alexander Semin will likely return to the lineup.
The puck drops at 7 PM Wednesday evening at Verizon Center, with Washington aiming to win consecutive games for the first time since Nov. 1 - Nov. 4. Comcast SportsNet will provide the local telecast.
Please visit Japers' Rink, SB Nation's Capitals blog, for coverage of the Capitals. For the perspective from the other side, please visit Arctic Ice Hockey, SB Nation's Jets blog.