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Capitals' Trotz encouraged by Mike Richards' play in 1st game

Bill Wippert / National Hockey League / Getty

Mike Richards recorded one hit and one shot on goal in 13 minutes of ice time Saturday in his first NHL action since last April, impressing Washington Capitals head coach Barry Trotz with his effort.

"I thought Richards's line was as effective as any, and they played some higher end lines head-to-head," Trotz said after the 4-1 loss to the Buffalo Sabres, according to Isabelle Khurshudyan of the Washington Post. "They were the one line that was getting pucks down deep and creating something off that ... That line was working tonight."

The 30-year-old forward centered the fourth line between Zach Sill and Michael Latta in his Capitals debut, and though he admitted he was "chucking pucks away" early in the game, it didn't seem to bother his coach.

"He didn't look at all out of place. He looked just absolutely fine. I’m really encouraged," Trotz continued. "I know he's going to be a real good add for us. He's going to be a big part of our success. You can see the hockey IQ and all that, the compete level and all that.

"I think he's going to be a real good fit for us."

After watching their five-game winning streak come to an end, Richards and the Capitals will look to pick up another two points against the New York Rangers on Sunday.

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