We know why Tom Wilson didn't play for Capitals in first game after Olympics

Tom Wilson made a lot of positive contributions for Team Canada at the Winter Olympics en route to a silver medal.

Despite that, he wasn't on the ice for the Washington Capitals on Wednesday night in their first game back.

Wilson, though, wasn't resting, or even injured. 

The Caps announced he missed out due to illness.

#Caps forward Tom Wilson (illness) is out for tonight’s game vs. Philadelphia.

MORE: Sidney Crosby breaks silence on injury, Olympics and rest of Penguins' season

Washington is still firmly in the playoff picture, so they'll want Wilson back as soon as possible.

The 34-year old from Toronto is having a fantastic season. In 50 games, he has 23 goals and 26 assists (49 points). He also has 132 hits.

Wilson is in his 13th season in the NHL, all with the Capitals. He has 202 goals and 242 assists in 885 games, a total of 444 points.

Early in his career, Wilson just brought the grit without a ton of skill. In recent seasons, he's also developed into a strong offensive player.

He played on Canada's first line for much of the Olympics alongside Connor McDavid and Macklin Celebrini.

Now back with the Caps, Wilson will hope to heal up in a hurry. They host the Vegas Golden Knights on Friday, and it'd be great for Washington to have Wilson back on the ice.

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