After 2008 first-round pick John Carlson got to play three games, it looks like it could be 2007 first-round pick Karl Alzner's turn. Alzner was recalled and is here for the morning skate today. He played 30 games for the Caps last year, but tonight could be his first of the season.

Shaone Morrisonn is not on the ice this morning, and it would either be Alzner or Morrisonn in the lineup with Tyler Sloan at forward. Morrisonn has been on the ice multiple times, so it is interesting that he's not out there. Milan Jurcina is expected to play tonight, and he was practicing with his teammates this morning.

UPDATE: Alzner said he is much more relaxed this time around after always looking over his shoulder last year -- "No more hiding in the lounge" in fear of being demoted, he said. He certainly looks more at ease, if you can judge that sort of thing from one interview.

Bruce Boudreau said he thinks Alexander Semin will practice Friday with the team (the Caps have tomorrow off), but he didn't have an update on Tom Poti, Shaone Morrisonn or Boyd Gordon. Boudreau said he didn't know that Morrisonn didn't skate this morning because he was in a meeting.

The Caps coach also said he thinks Quintin Laing looks "thin" and not only will he have to wait for his jaw to heal, he's going to need to put some weight back on before he can play again.

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