Report: Capitals not ruling out Lundqvist to return this season

Henrik Lundqvist might end up suiting up for the Washington Capitals after all.

The veteran goaltender has been out for the entire season after undergoing open-heart surgery in early January. Lundqvist indicated prior to the surgery he won't play this year, but it appears things may have changed as his recovery has progressed.

"Henrik Lundqvist has very quietly continued to skate, he is intent on resuming his career after undergoing open-heart surgery so long as his health allows," TSN's Frank Seravalli reported on Tuesday's edition of "Insider Trading." "He's awaiting word from doctors this week, a critical appointment that will determine his near-term and long-term future. The Washington Capitals, while everything would have to go right, aren't ruling out a return for Henrik Lundqvist this season."

The 39-year-old signed a one-year, $1.5-million contract with the Capitals after he was bought out by the New York Rangers in the offseason.

The former Vezina Trophy winner was initially brought in to complement Ilya Samsonov. In his absence, rookie goalie Vitek Vanecek has appeared in 26 games this season.

The Capitals are currently in first place in the East Division with a 25-9-4 record.