Brian Pothier Returns to Caps

Washington Capitals Hockey

Brain Pothier of the Washington Capitals returned to the ice this week after being out since January of 2008 after sustaining a concussion in a game, and suffering from "concussion syndrome" afterwards. Whether or not Pothier can return to his top form only time will tell as some players are never quite the same after suffering this type of injury. Eric Lindros is a prime example of a player who's career and performance was impacted from numerous concussions. When Lindros was healthy, he was one of the most dominant players in the game. However, after several episodes of concussion type injuries, he just wasn't the same player that he was beforehand. I happened to be watching a game in which Lindros was nailed at center ice by Scott Stevens of the Devils, and had him laying on the ice for several minutes. I remember thinking at the moment, I wonder if this is the hit that ends his career?

In any event, one has to be happy to see Pothier beat the odds and be able to play the game that he loves once again, and having another experienced defenseman in the lineup to eat up some time can only help the Caps heading into the playoffs.