Capitals' Orpik expected to return after 40-game absence

The NHL's best team is set to welcome back its second-highest paid defenseman after an extended absence due to injury.

Brooks Orpik is expected to be activated off long-term injured reserve and cleared to play Tuesday's game against Los Angeles after missing the past 40 with a lower-body injury suffered in early November.

The $5.5-million-a-year man recorded one goal, two assists, and a five-on-five Corsi For rating of 49.6 through the first 14 games of the season.

The Capitals haven't missed a beat in his absence, amassing a league-leading record of 40-10-4.