After missing halfway through the 2022-2023 season, John Carlson is ready to get back into action Thursday night. The Washington Capitals defenseman has recovered from his horrific injury three months after being shot in the head.
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The Star Guardian could have lost his life because of the shots fired at Brenden Dillon of the Winnipeg Jets on March 23. His fitness is almost miraculous after the violence of the pictures (see video above).
“I’m feeling very good. I’m happy to be back to everyday life. I’m a bit nervous, it’s really different from any game I’ve played in my career,” Carlson told reporters after the morning practice session.
Head injuries are never to be taken lightly and the 33-year-old veteran is a little nervous about how his body will react. On Wednesday, he said he had no symptoms of a concussion or headache.
“I’m getting used to it as I go from day one on the skates to the first full practice and game situations. It’s becoming more and more true, but it’s never like that [comme jouer un match]especially at this time of year,” explained the American.
Carlson, an integral part of the Capitals’ offense, had 21 points in 30 games prior to his injury. Head coach Peter Laviolette welcomed the return of an “important piece”.
“He is in excellent form. He’s been training really hard for the past 30-45 days. He’s ready,” he said.
Still in the hunt for a playoff spot, the Capitals were scheduled to take on the Chicago Blackhawks tonight in Washington.