How did John Carlson get injured? Washington Capitals star shares details of freak injury

Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson made his return to the lineup against the Chicago Blackhawks on Thursday after suffering a frightening injury on Dec. 23.

John Carlson was struck in the head by a 90 mph puck during a game against the Winnipeg Jets, leaving him with a fractured skull and a lacerated temporal artery. The injury was one of the scariest that many of his teammates and coaches have ever seen in hockey.

After nearly three months of recovery, John Carlson returned to the ice. While he is grateful to be back playing the game he loves, he admitted that the mental adjustment has been challenging. He had to readjust to the violent sounds of the game, and initially found himself jumpy when he heard the puck coming around the glass or off the crossbar.

Carlson said he also forced himself to stay away from the trainers’ room at the arena, as he found it difficult to relive the experience of his injury.

"I think just trying to get back to being comfortable out there has been a challenge," Carlson said. "Getting hit in the head with a puck, it's not the most comfortable thing. So just trying to get back to being myself, and confident out there has been a little bit of a challenge."

Despite the challenges, John Carlson has remained positive and focused on his recovery. He credits his teammates, trainers and family members for their support throughout the process. While he is eager to contribute to the team, he emphasized that he wouldn't have returned if there was any risk to his future health.

"I think the biggest thing is not to be scared," Carlson added. "That's kind of the first hurdle to get over. Obviously, it's a violent game and things happen, but if you're scared, that's when things can go bad.

"I don't think I'll ever forget about it. It was a big deal, obviously. But I've been working hard to get back and I'm just excited to be back with the guys and contributing in any way I can."

John Carlson’s return to the lineup is a positive development for the Capitals, who have struggled this season. With just nine games remaining in the regular season, Carlson’s presence on the ice will be a boost for their playoff push.

The injury serves as a reminder of the risks that come with playing hockey at the professional level. The Washington Capitals will be relieved to have John Carlson back in the lineup, and fans will be cheering for him as he makes his return to the ice.

John Carlson's 2022-23 Season: A solid performance despite challenges

In the 2022-2023 NHL season, Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson has played in 31 games, recording nine goals and 14 assists for a total of 23 points. He has a +/- rating of 0 and has accumulated eight penalty minutes.

Carlson has been productive on the power play, tallying three goals and nine assists with the man advantage. He has also scored one shorthanded goal and one shorthanded assist. With 104 shots on goal, Carlson has a shooting percentage of 8.7%. Despite missing time due to an injury earlier in the season, Carlson could be a valuable contributor for the Capitals in their playoff push.