Positive update on Pierre-Luc Dubois after second injury setback of season

Dubois was helped off the ice Friday night after an awkward fall at the faceoff dot against the New York Islanders. The 27-year-old center appeared in visible pain and did not return, prompting concern that his comeback might be short-lived.

It's a cruel twist for a player who had only recently rejoined the lineup after missing multiple games earlier this month with an upper-body injury.

This was the moment that stopped the building cold.

Head coach Spencer Carbery didn't have a detailed update immediately after the game, but on Saturday, reporter Sammi Silber confirmed that Dubois is «considered day-to-day for now.» It's welcome news given the optics of the injury - and a sign that Washington may have dodged a larger setback.

In limited games this season, Dubois has contributed quietly but efficiently. He's averaging around 17 minutes per night and remains one of the team's better puck-possession forwards. His ability to protect the puck and create off the cycle has been a stabilizing presence in the top six when healthy.

For now, Connor McMichael is expected to continue filling Dubois's spot down the middle, a role he's handled capably during previous absences.

Fans have grown anxious seeing Dubois sidelined twice in a month, but given how last night looked, «day-to-day» is about as good as it gets. Washington will take that small win while hoping their big acquisition can stay on the ice for good.