Update on Pierre-Luc Dubois' injury status - New lines for tonights game

Dubois, still recovering from an upper-body injury, skated in a regular jersey earlier this week but hasn't yet cleared for game action. His absence keeps Connor McMichael at center on the second line, a role he's handled with quiet confidence and growing poise.

McMichael will skate between Hendrix Lapierre and Tom Wilson, a mix of speed, grit, and youth. That trio earned extended offensive-zone time last game, something Carbery hopes to build on.

The top line stays intact with Alex Ovechkin, Dylan Strome, and Anthony Beauvillier, a unit that's slowly finding rhythm. Beauvillier's forecheck has opened space for Ovechkin to get his one-timer off more often, even if the goals haven't flooded in yet.

Lower in the lineup, Justin Sourdif centers Aliaksei Protas and Ryan Leonard, giving Washington a third line full of size and pace. The fourth features Brandon Duhaime, Nic Dowd, and Alex Frank, a group built for defensive reliability and energy.

On defense, Martin Fehervary pairs with John Carlson, while Jakob Chychrun skates with Matt Roy. Kyle Chisholm slots in beside Trevor van Riemsdyk as Rasmus Sandin sits with his own upper-body injury. Goaltender Hunter Thompson draws the start, with Charlie Lindgren expected to back up.

Here's the full lineup from Sammi Silber's post:

Fans have been patient with Dubois' recovery, but his absence is still felt. His puck protection and net-front strength could make a difference in tight games like this one. The good news: he's «getting closer,» according to the team.

If Washington can grind out points with this patchwork forward group, it'll only make Dubois' return that much more meaningful when he finally re-enters the lineup.