Capitals' Tom Wilson a game-time decision for Game 2 at Panthers

The Washington Capitals shocked many in the hockey world on Tuesday by rallying back from a 2-1 deficit to defeat the top-seeded Florida Panthers 4-2 in the opening game of their first-round playoff series. 

That victory didn't come without a setback, though, as Washington forward Tom Wilson suffered an unspecified lower-body injury at some point in the first period after he opened the scoring. 

According to ESPN, Capitals coach Peter Laviolette told reporters that Wilson was getting treatment Wednesday and will be a game-time decision for Thursday's Game 2 in Florida. 

As noted by ESPN stats, Wilson ended the 2021-22 regular season fourth on the team with 52 points and tied for second among Washington players with 24 goals. Per Andrew Gillis of NBC Sports Washington, Laviolette remarked that "we certainly hope" Wilson's problem isn't a long-term issue. 

"You can’t replace Tom, especially in playoffs," Washington forward T.J. Oshie said after Game 1, according to Sportsnet. "He is one of our most important players because of his ability to play physical, his ability to score big goals like he did (in the first period).

"His ability to penalty-kill, play on the power play. He is just a guy you cannot replace. Not only that, but his presence in the room is very influential to our team. We are hoping for the best. I think everyone knows he is a pretty tough guy, so hopefully, he will be out there with us in a couple nights. If not, it is next man up, like it always is." 

Game 3 at Washington's Capital One Arena will take place on Saturday afternoon.