Capitals' Orpik still uncertain for Winter Classic

WASHINGTON (AP) Washington Capitals defenseman Brooks Orpik will skate during warmups Thursday to determine if he will play in the Winter Classic

Orpik didn't practice Wednesday as the team went through its paces on the outdoor rink at Nationals Park. He injured his right knee Monday night against the New York Islanders.

Coach Barry Trotz said Orpik was doing better and that there was no structural damage to the knee. But Trotz added: ''We will not put him at risk'' just to play him in the Classic.

Orpik has played in three previous outdoors games with the Pittsburgh Penguins.