Capitals defenseman Vincent Desharnais is out 4-6 weeks after having an appendectomy

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Washington Capitals defenseman Vincent Desharnais is expected to miss 4-6 weeks after undergoing a successful appendectomy.

The team said Friday he had his appendix removed on Thursday.

Desharnais, 30, is nine games into his first season with the Capitals after signing a four-year, $16.8 million contract with them as a free agent. He has three assists and is averaging more than 19 minutes of ice time.

The Laval, Quebec, native previously played for Edmonton, Vancouver, Pittsburgh and San Jose and helped the Oilers reach the 2024 Stanley Cup Final.

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