Here is a link and the actual statement from Dr. James Andrews, who performed surgery on Robert Griffin III today. 

"Robert Griffin III had successful knee surgery early this morning. He had a direct repair of his LCL and a re-do of his previous ACL reconstruction. We expect a full recovery and it is everybody's hope and belief that due to Robert's high motivation, he will be ready for the 2013 season.

"The goal of his treatment is to give him the best opportunity for a long professional career."

Time for the new edition of the Weekly DC Sports Stock Report of who is Up and who is Down.  You can review last week's edition RIGHT HERE.  The article provide for 3 to 5 in each category of UP and Down, as deserving. 

Here we go . . .

STOCK UP: 

Adam LaRoche:  LaRoche was a free agent heading into an off-season after a career year, smacking 33 home runs and driving in 100 runs.  The Nats promised LaRoche a two year deal, but he wanted a three year deal.  Do to the fact the new CBA attached a second draft pick to LaRoche, his options were dwindled.  No team out there was willing to give LaRoche a three deal.  He re-upped with the Nats yesterday.  He gets a Stock Up because, according to LaRoche, Washington is where he wanted to be all along.  He is a veteran slugger with outstanding character and is a locker room leader.  He enjoyed his stay in DC and has now extended that relationship for two more years.  Welcome back Adam!

Washington Capitals:  The team is Stock Up.  Why?  Simple, the new CBA is agreed to and hockey in DC will return soon, likely January 19.  Most players are back in DC and skating.  There are injury concerns with Nicklas Backstrom and Dmitry Orlov.  GM George McPhee did say Orlov will not be ready for opener.  It is unclear on Backstrom.  Tom Poti is pain free and will return to the Washington blue line for the first time since 2010-11 season.  It's up!  Hockey is back!  Prepare for a shortened 48 game season that the Caps believe is playoff important right from the start.

Mike Rizzo:  The Nationals GM stood his ground in offering returning first base slugger Adam LaRoche a two year deal max.  He never blinked, although at one point, felt that a team out there could ante up a three year deal to lure LaRoche away from the Nats.   It never materialized.  Rizzo took a risk and won.  It was a risk and the Nationals had a plan to lose LaRoche.  It was clear from the start that Plan A all along was returning LaRoche to the clubhouse.   Furthermore, Rizzo now stands in position where he can deal slugger Mike Morse.  The beauty of moving Morse is the fact it is not financially required, but the Nationals have at least six teams interested in acquiring Morse.  Dream position for any GM to be in and we know Rizzo usually pulls pretty good deals for the Nationals.  We will wait and see. 

Bradley Beal: After a slow start to the season and very tough months in October and November, the 19-year-old rookie has improved in recent weeks, scoring in double figures in 15 of the last 18 games and scoring at least 22 points in three of the last five. After being one of the worst 3-point shooters in the NBA the first three months of his pro career, Beal has found his shot from long range in 2013, hitting 14 of 25 shots from behind the arc in this calendar year. With Coach Randy Wittman frequently putting the ball in Beal's hands at the ends of games now, it appears the rookie is poised to take over the lead scoring role on the team -- if he can maintain his hot play.

STOCK DOWN

Robert Griffin III.  RG3 did not catch a break on his sprained knee.  The verdict is in, it is a torn LCL and damage to ACL.  He underwent surgery today and the LCL was repaired and ACL reportedly was intact, but needed to be stronger.  His anticipated recovery is anywhere between 8 to 10 months, but no formal timeline until we hear from Dr. James Andrews.  The Washington Redskins, RG3, and team doctors are confident RG3 will return by the start of the 2013 season and will be exactly the same.  Given the fact Dr. James Andrews will perform the surgery, is the best in the business, and is pretty good with timeline, we are hopeful.  Still, the possible rookie of the year will miss an entire off-season, mini-camps, and training camp in which to develop more chemistry with his offense.  Additionally, the fact he could be ready by season start is also optimistic.  An awful break for the incredibly gifted quarterback.  Get well soon RG3, we will be thinking of you!

Mike Shanahan:  Regardless of where you are in the argument that Mike Shanahan sacrificed his rookie, his team's playoffs, and should have protected his rookie by getting him out of the game, it really doesn't matter.  The fact the argument is taking place, written about often, and heavily debated in national media, is bad news for Mike Shanahan.  Will it cost Shanahan his job?  Not likely.  However, it has certainly harmed Shanahan's reputation.  The RG3 injury has also cast more dark clouds on the Washington Redskins and Mike Shanahan as a less than truthful organization.  The fact that Dr. James Andrews disputed Shanahan's claim that RG3 was cleared by him to return in the Baltimore game, further tarnishes the Redskins reputation.  Fact is, when Shanahan is speaking, especially regarding injuries, you best take what he says with a grain of salt.  That's the sad of truth at Ashburn right now.

FEDEX Field.  The Seattle Seahawks have lodged a complaint on field conditions during the playoff game.  Chris Clemons blames the field for his ACL tear.  And, if you have eyes, it is hard to dispute that the field conditions were just awful.  Given the fact that Forbes ranks the the Washington Redskins fourth overall in all of sports in value, valued at $1.55 billion, that is simply not acceptable.  The surface was an embarrassment on national television.  Daniel Snyder must address the issue in the off-season.  Period. 

Ever since the Washington Nationals inked Adam LaRoche to a new two year deal yesterday, the rumor mill on trade possibilities for the Nats and Mike Morse have heated up.  As we wrote in our Live Microphone yesterday, GM Mike Rizzo would like to move Morse, but certainly does not need to for financial reason and will not just give Morse away for little return.  One thing is clear, interest is out there.  Repoorts yesterday put the teams at five that may be interested in acquiring Morse. 

The American League East seems to be a popular spot for Morse speculation.  Morse has stated no desire to be a designated hitter, but his problem may be, he is not considfered to be a top defensive player.  Beltway rival Baltimore Orioles could be interested in landing Morse.  Bird Wacthers seem soncern that Rizzo may press the Oriole for more than they should give up.  Washington is likely looking for some left handed bullpen help, but coudl also look for a package of attractive prospects. 

Newsday reports that fellow AL East New York Yankess may be interested in acquiring Morse.   Yanks need some right handed slugging power. 

Tampa Bay may also be interested in acquiring a right handed bat. 

Other teams are interested as well.

It didn't take long for the rumors to start up again today, with Ken Rosenthal reporting that as many as seven teams may be in on Morse, including the Rays but with also the Yankees, Mariners, Indians, Orioles, Rangers, Phillies and Mets also being in on the National's slugger.

Here is a further run down of all interested teams.

Again, the Nationals are in a unique position here.  At $7 million this season, moving Morse for financial reasons is not an issue here.  They can keep Morse in the clubhouse if they choose.  Thye bidding war will likely develop over the bnext few days.  Given the success of Rizzo in building the current roster, we are pretty confident that Rizzo will make the right deal for Morse.  Given the number of teams interested in acquiring Morse and the number of teams that need a right handed slugger, it is silly to think Morse woudl stay in DC. 

The shortened NHL season is about ready to get underway.  Today, the NHL Owners will vote on the tentatively agreed to CBA between the NHL: and NHLPA.  The memorandum of understanding between the NHL and NHLPA is still being worked out. 

"We are trying to finalize a summary document, and we are very close on that," NHL deputy commissioner Bill Daly told The Associated Press in an email. "That will be turned into a (memorandum of understanding) with more detailed language that won't be signed until this coming weekend."

Barring any last minute, unforeseen snags, we should expect a 48 game schedule to commence on January 19th with teams reporting for training camp on January 13th.  Early word on schedule as reported yesterday is the shortened 48 game schedule will likely not include any conference versus conference games.   The CBA agreement and commencement of the season will likely add some confusion for junior hockey leagues. 

The Caps coaching staff is preparing to focus the team on the shortened season. 

In the meantime, the Caps’ coaching staff is back at work with a more urgent sense of purpose. They don’t know when camp will start or what the schedule will look like yet, but they know they’ll be short on time and they won’t have the luxury of any exhibition games once camp does finally get underway.

“First impression would be it’s going to be more of a track meet,” says Caps head coach Adam Oates of the upcoming season, “not as much time to figure out your team, not as many highs and lows. But 48 games is still a lot of games.”

As for the start of the season for the Caps, as expected, D Dmitry Orlov is not expected to be ready by the season opener.  Orlov suffered a upper body injury while playing fro Caps' AHL affiliate Hershey Bears.  Orlov sustained the injury on December 6.  He has not practiced much since, but is beginning to pick up skating and work.  Tom Poti returns to Washington.  He missed all of last year and is said to be pain free and ready for 2013.  Poti would be an injection of veteran presence into the blue line and a solid puck handler in the back. 

Top line centerman Nicklas Backstrom's status for the opener is still unclear.  Backstrom suffered a neck injury playing in Russia during the lockout.  He did not skate yesterday.  Alexander Ovechkin, who played with Backstrom in Russia, commented on Backstrom's health. 

"I think he's doing well. It was not a dirty than was before," Ovechkin said. "But sometimes it's not hard hit, you just feel a little dizzy. We'll see how it goes."

"I think it's just a situation, you know, it's contact game, it's physical game," Ovechkin said. "Even in KHL it's very good level out there. Again, it happens. So nothing you can do."

Speaking of Ovechkin, hungry for some Ovechkin words?  Here you go, a video of Ovechkin comments yesterday.   Ovechkin caught a Georgetown Hoyas games last night.    Ovechkin is happy to be back in DC and for the start of the NHL. 

“Of course, first of all, I want to find out what the deal is because if this lockout is done, it’s done,” Ovechkin said when asked if he had any hesitation about returning. “What’s gonna be situation with my contract and the contract for the future for the players?

“But it’s over, so I’m happy to [be] back,” Ovechkin continued. “It was hard time, but I think everybody miss hockey so badly right now. It’s nice to be back.”

Dmitry Chesnokov reported that Ovechkin suffered a minor injury while playing in Russia.  Of course, just like Backstrom injury, until training camp starts, the Capitals management and staff can't comment. 

The voice of the Caps, John Walton, interview first round pick Filip Forsberg. 

Jason Chimera gives a shout out to former Cap Jeff Halperin for workouts during the lockout. 

According to George McPhee, D Cam Shilling may be the only call up from Hershey. 

And, you are up to date on the Washington Capitals. 

The NHL Lockout is over, and in the days leading up to a much-anticipated training camp, we will be profiling the newest members of the Washington Capitals organization. Today, Joey Crabb.

Date of Birth: April 3, 1983

Place of Birth: Anchorage, Alaska

Age: 29

Height: 6’1”

Weight: 190 Pounds

Position: RW

Pro career:

The only newcomer to be signed by the Washington Capitals on the opening day of free agency, Joey Crabb is expected to inject some much-needed speed and offensive potential to the Caps bottom-six.

The forward arrives on a one-year, $950,000 deal, the first one-way contract of his life, after posting a career year with the Toronto Maple Leafs in his first full NHL season. He is a prototypical third-liner, who is not afraid to throw his weight around, goes in hard on the forecheck, and can put up a decent number of points and be a force on the penalty kill.

Crabb, perhaps a late-bloomer who is still finding his feet in the NHL at the tender age of 29, will be expected to compete with the likes of Jason Chimera, Brooks Laich, and Joel Ward for spots on the Caps third-line. If not, he should make an effective fourth-line winger.

And Crabb will undoubtedly come into training camp fitter than most of his teammates, having already played in 35 games this season with his hometown ECHL Alaska Aces.

Look for Joey Crabb to impress in his first training camp with the Washington Capitals.

Washington Redskins rookie QB Robert Griffin III will undergo surgery this week to repair a torn LCL.  According to sources, doctors will determine what if any damage was done to the ACL while repairing the LCL.  

According to Adam Schefter from ESPN, Dr. James Andrew will perform the surgery.  Additionally, it was determined that the damage tot he LCL occurred on the play before the bad snap. 

According to doctors, RG3 is expected to be back and be the same next year. 

Criticism has engulfed Redskins HC Mike Shanahan on his allowing Griffin to continue playing last week, despite signs of obvious pain.  Todays news will do little to change that criticism. 

DISCUSS IT HERE IN OUR THREAD

With the re-signing of Adam LaRoche to a two year deal and the earlier acquisition of CF Denard Span, suddenly the Washington Nationals find themselves with a heavy bat, without a permanent spot.  Mike Morse, who played outfield last season and was expected to take over at first base if the Nationals could not sign LaRoche is suddenly expendable.  However, that does not necessarily mean Morse will be dealt, according to Nats GM Mike Rizzo.   

"Nobody said that we have to trade Mike Morse.  There is no financial ramifications that forces us to trade Mike Morse.  We'd move him in the right deal.  We are certainly not going to give him away."

The marathon contract stalemate between Adam LaRoche and Nationals General Manager Mike Rizzo is finally over!  LaRoche setting for the two-year offer that has been on the table for months after failing to land the three year deal he had sought. New free agency rules requiring high draft pick compensation created a tough market for LaRoche. Boston and Baltimore were two teams that were very interested in LaRoche, but did not want to give up a first round draft choice as compensation.

The 33 year old LaRoche is coming off a career year, capturing the Gold Glove AND Silver Slugger awards. LaRoche hit 33 home runs and drove in 100 RBI with a .271 average in '12. Nats Manager Davey Johnson had made it very clear that he needed and wanted LaRoche back in a Nats uniform. LaRoche's left handed power bat was a key component of a balanced and dangerous Washington lineup.

With the off-season acquisition of center fielder Denard Span and now LaRoche returning, Mike Morse is the odd man out. The Nationals will be looking to trade Morse for a left handed short reliever and a prospect. Atlanta could be a potential partner with left handed Jonny Venters the prize. The Braves are also loaded with elite starting pitching prospects that Rizzo is seeking.

The Washington Redskins signed five players to futures contracts, essentially retaining the rights of these practice squad players. 

The players receiving new contracts are: 

1. Chigbo Anunoby, a 24-year-old nose tackle;

2. Dominique Hamilton, a 23-year-old defensive lineman;

3. Eric Kettani, a 25-year-old fullback from Navy;

4. Deangelo Peterson, a 24-year-old tight end;

5. Korey Lindsey, a 23-year-old defensive back.

That's all for now.

One week remains (Jan 15) until the deadline for underclassman to enter the 2013 NFL Draft. Seven more players have given up their college eligibility, including four tight end's.

Gavin Escobar TE San Diego State- Escobar has the size (6'6" 250) and the athleticism that fits the new breed of tight end that is changing the game. Projected to go in the second round, Escobar fits the "joker" descrption becoming popluar across the league. With Fred Davis' return an uncertainty, Escobar could be a good fit in Ashburn.

Zach Ertz TE Stanford- Can we call Stanford Tight End U? Ertz was the leading receiver for the Cardinal in 2012 with 69 catches, more than twice as many receptions as anyone on the team. Ertz is 6'6" 250 and many are expecting he and Notre Dame's Tyler Eifert to be the first at the position off the board.

Levine Toilolo TE Stanford- Yes, two tight ends from Stanford are departing early for the pro game. Toilolo finished second on the team in touchdown catches and third in yards receiving. Levine has great size (6'7" 265), but scouts feel he needs to work on his blocking. Colts tight end Coby Fleener, Toilolo and Ertz were often utilitzed together in a three tight end set during Andrew Luck's final season with the Cardinal.

Tyler Eifert TE Notre Dame- I would love to see Eifert in a Redskins uniform next season, but I'm not sure the team can allocate the high pick needed to land the 65" 250 pound All-American. Eifert is an adequate blocker, but his pass catching skills are what has scouts drooling. The 'Skins would be well served taking Eifert with their top pick (2nd round), but they will likely be using that selection on a RT or DB.

Tyler Bray QB Tennessee- Bray is a true gunslinger, but his slight frame (6'5" 210) worries me a bit. Bray has trememdous raw skills, but some have questioned his work ethic. Bray would be best served if given time to develop and getting solid coaching from an established quarterback coach. Bray is a surefire pick in either the first or second round come April.

Michael Ford RB LSU- LSU much be approaching double digits in number of players leaving Baton Route early. Ford is the second running back to depart, joining Spencer Ware. Ford was an elie recruit for Les Miles, but has yet to develop to reach full potential. Ford has the size (5'10" 220) and the durability scouts are looking for. Ford is projected to be selected mid-draft.

Jelani Jenkins LB Florida- Jenkins is a local kid, starring at Good Counsel in Olney, Maryland. A two-way star and Parade All-American in high school, Jenkins was one of the most hotly recruited players in the nation as a senior. Jenkins began his career as the Gators middle linebacker, but has moved outside and is one of the best "cover" linebackers in the draft. Injuries plagued him this season, which may drop him down into the third or fourth round.