Capitals defensemen Mike Green went through a full practice Friday for the first time since he suffered two separate head injuries in early February. The practice was optional and low-intensity, but it still represents a big step for Green as he tries to return to action before the NHL Playoffs.
Green was wearing contact lenses and glasses all week, and said the symptoms he felt on Monday had mostly gone away by Friday. He said he hopes to go through a more intense practice on Monday and return to the ice at some point before the playoffs begin in two weeks.
The Capitals suddenly have an even greater need for Green to return. Defensemen Dennis Wideman, who was acquired at the NHL Trade Deadline in part to be insurance for Green's injuries, suffered a leg injury of his own and was reportedly in the hospital Thursday because blood went from an artery into soft tissue. Fellow defensemen John Erskine is also banged up after getting into a fight in the Capitals' win over Columbus Thursday.