Capitals' Mike Knuble breaks finger crashing into net, out 3-4 weeks

WASHINGTON - Washington Capitals right wing Mike Knuble has a broken finger and will be sidelined three to four weeks.

Knuble was injured on a power play in the first period of Friday night's 3-1 victory over the Minnesota Wild. He crashed into the net when defenceman Marek Zidlicky sent him hurdling over goaltender Josh Harding.

The Capitals said Knuble will have surgery. The team did not say which finger was broken.

Knuble has five goals and 10 assists for the Capitals this season. He was one of Washington's major off-season acquisitions, signing a US$5.6-million, two-year deal on the first day of NHL free agency in July.