Capitals' Carlson expected to return after month of absence

The Washington Capitals could have their stud defenseman back in their grasps Wednesday night.

John Carlson is probable to return to the lineup against the Philadelphia Flyers, head coach Barry Trotz confirmed.

The 26-year-old was back skating alongside Nate Schmidt on the team's top defense pairing during the club's morning skate.

Carlson has been missing in action since Boxing Day while dealing with a lower-body injury. The ailment has kept him out of the Capitals' past 12 games, though the club has fared just fine without him, going 9-2-1 during that stretch.

Carlson will take the pregame warmups where his status for the game will be determined.