Updated

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) — Washington Capitals defenseman Tom Poti will miss Game 7 against the Montreal Canadiens after getting hit in the eye by a puck.

Coach Bruce Boudreau says Tuesday that Poti has "a pretty significant injury" and could be sidelined two to three weeks — or longer — if the Capitals stay in the playoffs by winning Wednesday night's deciding game of their first-round series.

Poti was hurt in Montreal's 4-1 home victory in Game 6 on Monday night.

Poti is tied for the team lead with four assists this postseason, and he and rookie John Carlson have formed Washington's top defensive pairing against Montreal.

Boudreau also says he has decided on a goalie for Game 7, but he wouldn't announce a starter.