Capitals await Roy’s return as they host winless Kings

Matt Roy could return to the Washington Capitals’ lineup when they host the Los Angeles Kings on Tuesday, Oct. 20, at 7 p.m. ET. The defenceman took part fully in Monday’s practice after missing six games with a lower-body injury.

Coach Spencer Carbery has not confirmed Roy’s availability. Washington will be without Justin Sourdif, who missed Monday’s practice because of illness. Pierre-Luc Dubois returned to the ice in a noncontact jersey, but Carbery said he was assuming the centre would remain out pending a discussion with the medical staff.

Roy also took rushes on the top defence pairing, The Hockey News reported. His possible return comes as Washington tries to win a third consecutive home game during a five-game homestand. The Capitals are 5-3-0 after beating New Jersey 4-2 on Saturday.

Los Angeles enters at 0-4-2 and opens a five-game road trip in Washington. Mats Zuccarello could return after missing three games with an undisclosed injury. He practised Monday alongside Quinton Byfield and Trevor Moore, and coach Peter Laviolette said his progress was encouraging.

Neither Roy’s nor Zuccarello’s return had been confirmed as of Monday’s practice updates.