"Key Players Injured as Capitals Face Rival Penguins in Home Opener"
The Washington Capitals may be without their starting goaltender, Darcy Kuemper, for their season opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins as he and his wife welcomed their first child. Backup goalie Charlie Lindgren is prepared to step in if needed. The team may need to recall a goaltender from the AHL to serve as Lindgren's backup, potentially resulting in forward Aliaksei Protas being sent down. Defenseman Alex Alexeyev also took part in a scratches skate, indicating he may not be in the lineup. Final decisions will be made before the game.