Capitals’ Djoos sidelined after surgery

Capitals defenseman Christian Djoos had surgery on his left thigh on Thursday and will be out indefinitely, the team announced. Djoos got hurt against the Red Wings on Tuesday, and after he missed Wednesday’s practice, complications arose, eventually leading to surgery.

“A really unexpected situation,” coach Todd Reirden said. “He’ll be away from our team for a while. We’re just concerned about his health here moving forward and wishing him the best.”

Asked whether the injury could be season-ending, Reirden said, “No, I don’t think we’re ready to go there yet, but it’s probably going to be a substantial number of weeks. Tough situation for our team and the player as well.”

Djoos had appeared in 28 games after playing in 63 last season as a rookie, skating alongside veteran Brooks Orpik as the team’s third pairing in the Capitals’ run to the Stanley Cup. Now both players are sidelined; Orpik missed his 21st straight game Friday following arthroscopic surgery on his right knee three weeks ago.