Capitals Notebook
Belatedly, Bourque Has Chance to Make Impression
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Sunday, September 27, 2009
After missing two preseason games with concussion-like symptoms, left wing Chris Bourque is expected to return to the lineup when the Washington Capitals host the New York Rangers in the exhibition finale on Sunday.
"This was probably the one camp where I had a chance to crack the opening lineup," said Bourque, a second-round pick in 2004. "That's not gone, but it definitely put a dent in my training-camp hopes."
Bourque, in a tight battle with Alexandre Giroux, Quintin Laing and Keith Aucoin for the two remaining forward spots on the opening night roster, was upset by the hit that led to his injury.
"I could see if it was a clean hit, or if I had the puck or was anywhere near the puck," said Bourque, who was blasted with a high hit by Buffalo's Patrick Kaleta behind the play.
Neuvirth Leaves Practice
Michal Neuvirth, one of the two young goalies fighting for a full-time job in Washington, left Saturday's practice with an undisclosed injury.
Coach Bruce Boudreau declined to divulge the nature of the injury, saying only that Neuvirth had "tweaked something" and that it wasn't serious.
With Neuvirth ailing, Semyon Varlamov will get his third start of the preseason Sunday. . . .
Brendan Morrison said he's ready to return to the lineup after missing the past four games because of the whiplash-like symptoms he has had since he was driven into the boards in Buffalo on Sept. 17. . . .
Eric Fehr, who is recovering from surgery on both shoulders, did not receive medical clearance after being examined by team doctors this week. He conceded that playing in Thursday night's opener at Boston is unlikely. . . .
The first annual Capitals Convention, hosted at Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center on Saturday, attracted a crowd of more than 5,000. In addition to autograph sessions with players, there were panel discussions with Don Fishman, the team's capologist, General Manager George McPhee and NHL Commissioner Gary Bettman.
"I showed up at nine o'clock this morning and it was like the day after Thanksgiving at a Wal-Mart," owner Ted Leonsis said. "Everyone was pressing up against the glass, the doors opened, they went running in. I don't think there's any more discussion to have about 'Are we a hockey town?' "
