McMichael did not play the final few games for Washington heading into the Olympic break due to an upper-body injury, but appears ready to return after being activated from Injured Reserve on Wednesday. The 25-year-old McMichael is averaging 17:03 time-on-ice and has 31 points (8G / 23A) in 55 games this season.
McMichael has been out since January 29th due to an upper-body injury but practiced in full on Friday and is expected to return to Washington's lineup when they return from their Olympic break vs. Philadelphia on Wednesday. The 25-year-old has taken a step backwards offensively after a breakout campaign in 2024-25, with only eight goals, 31 points and 105 SOG through 55 games played this season.
McMichael took a massive step forward with his game in 2023-24 after Niklas Backstrom was ruled out for the season and earned himself a two-year contract extension worth $4.2 million ($2.1M AAV). The 23-year-old averaged 5:21 TOI/GP more than his previous career high last season which led to his 18 goals and 33 points in 80 games played.
McMichael will return to face the Lightning on Saturday after missing the last two games with an illness. He is expected to reclaim his role as Washington's second-line centre. McMichael has six goals and seven assists in 28 games this season.
