Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson has been released from the hospital but will be out indefinitely after being shot to the head, the organization confirmed on Saturday.

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Recall that at the start of the third period of Friday's game against the Winnipeg Jets, Carlson collapsed on the ice after receiving a slap shot to the head. Bloodied, the veteran left the rink with the help of teammates and he did not return afterwards.

Capitals head coach Peter Laviolette said after the game that his defenseman had been taken to a local hospital for a preventive evaluation.

The number 74 of the "Caps" still had a very good season having amassed 21 points in 30 games since the start of the season. He also missed six games early in the season with a lower-body injury.

Last season, the American capital's quarterback finished with 71 points in 78 games.