Dowd Returns To Capitals-Maple Leafs After Taking Shoulder To Head In Collision With Knies

WASHINGTON — The Washington Capitals avoided an injury scare with Dowd, as the center returned to Wednesday's game against the Toronto Maple Leafs after leaving in the second period due to a shoulder to the head.

Roughly 15 minutes into the second period, Dowd was in front of the net and battling for the puck when Matthew Knies collided with him, catching him in the head with his shoulder.

Dowd went down immediately in visible pain, grabbing his face. He got to his feet under his own power and made his way down the tunnel.

Knies was called for a high sticking penalty, but upon further review, it was deemed incidental contact and there was no call on the play.

Dowd returned in the third period.