The Washington Capitals will return to Capital One Arena to play the Vegas Golden Knights on Friday night, with Hendrix Lapierre designated as a healthy scratch. This decision comes as the team shifts back to a full roster following the Olympic break.
Lapierre, who has participated in 57 of the Capitals’ 60 games this season, has contributed 10 points, including two goals and eight assists. However, he has struggled to earn consistent ice time under coach Spencer Carbery, averaging just over eight minutes per game. In his recent nine outings, Lapierre has tallied four points, including an assist in the Capitals’ 3-1 victory over the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday.
Team Health Improves, Leading to Lapierre’s Bench Role
The forward group for Washington is now fully healthy, allowing for a deeper and more competitive lineup. Connor McMichael was activated from injured reserve ahead of the Flyers game, and Tom Wilson has recovered from an illness sustained after representing Team Canada. These returns contributed to Lapierre becoming the team’s extra forward on the bench for the upcoming game.
Alongside Lapierre, defenseman Dylan McIlrath will also be a healthy scratch as the Capitals prepare for Friday’s matchup. Meanwhile, John Carlson remains sidelined with a lower-body injury, maintaining some limits on the defensive corps.
Recently, the Capitals also parted ways with Sonny Milano, who was waived and reassigned to the Hershey Bears in the AHL, further impacting roster decisions for the contest against Vegas.
Lineup and Game Outlook Against the High-Ranked Golden Knights
Logan Thompson is expected to start in goal for Washington, having been the first goalie on the ice during the morning skate. Thompson has proven effective against Vegas, boasting a 2-0 record with a 2.01 goals-against average and a .941 save percentage in two prior meetings. The Capitals have yet to face the Golden Knights this season.
Vegas leads the NHL’s Pacific Division with a 28-16-14 record and will have key players Jack Eichel and Noah Hanifin back from their Team USA Olympic duties for the game. This balanced and sharpened lineup for both clubs promises a competitive encounter at Capital One Arena.
lapping up this sweet sandy feed and finish pic.twitter.com/Ti66yry1J7
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) February 26, 2026
