Wideman back skating for Capitals

ARLINGTON, Va. -- Four days ago Dennis Wideman was released after a nearly two-week stay in the hospital to recover from a hematoma and compartment syndrome in his leg, but he was on the ice here Friday morning at Kettler Capitals Iceplex.

Wideman did some light skating in a track suit before his teammates went on the ice for their morning skate. He hasn't played since hurting his right leg March 29 against Carolina after a collision with Tuomo Ruutu.

"A really surprising sign, but a very good sign," Washington coach Bruce Boudreau said. "He skated for about 15 minutes and felt pretty good, so maybe my assessment of three weeks was a little premature.”

Boudreau had previously said he didn't expect Wideman to be available until the second round at the earliest, but he said Friday it is possible the trade deadline acquisition is back before then.

"Sooner than later," Boudreau said. "Who knows? Depending on what kind of shape he can get into in a hurry and how long this series [extends], it might even be in this round.

"There was no damage to the muscle and that’s why he’s able to be out here doing what he’s doing. That’s a really good sign -- and it shows how tough he is."

Washington's other injured defenseman, Tom Poti, was back on the ice in full gear after take a day off. Poti hasn't played since Jan. 12 because of a groin injury. Boudreau said Thursday that his other six defensemen (not including Wideman) are playing so well that it might take injuries for Poti get back in the lineup when he is pronounced fit to play.

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