The Washington Capitals aren't fully healthy, and it might be best it stays that way.
Brooks Orpik returned to the practice ice Wednesday, skating at the Capitals' facility for the first time in five weeks, according to Isabelle Khurshudyan of the Washington Post.
A return of a defenseman with a top-pairing salary would normally be more than welcomed, but for the Capitals, who have won 20 of their last 24 games, Orpik's health ties their hands a little bit.
The 35-year-old's $5.5-million cap hit, which is currently being cancelled out by his placement on long-term injury reserve, will push the Capitals' payroll past the allowed ceiling, according to generalfanager.com.
Washington has more than $4 million to work with right now, so Orpik's return would only require shedding a minor contract. But it will prevent the bona fide Stanley Cup contenders from continuing to bulk up for the stretch run.
