LANDOVER -- Washington Capitals defenseman Sylvain Cote, who suffered a fractured orbital bone under his right eye Sunday night, skated and took part in a scaled-down scrimmage yesterday.

Initially, doctors said Cote could not skate for at least two weeks and would not be available to play for at least three.

But after a re-examination, Cote was cleared to take the ice. He will be examined again by Dr. James Karesh of Sinai Hospital today for a further determination of his playing status.

Cote still has double vision, but he could be back playing when that clears up.

"We have to wait for the follow up report by our doctor," said Caps general manager David Poile. "But if it is favorable, there is the chance he could come back to play in this series."