Brashna Kasi
Updated on: October 16, 2024 3:57 pm GMT
The Washington Capitals are making headlines by placing Ethan Bear and Mike Sgarbossa on NHL waivers as they finalize their roster for the upcoming season. This move signals a shift in the team’s strategy as they prepare for the 2024-25 NHL season.
Waiver Moves Startle Fans
- Along with Bear and Sgarbossa, Luke Philp was also placed on waivers.
- All three players are now available for other teams to claim within the next 24 hours.
If no team claims them, they will have the chance to join the Hershey Bears, the Capitals’ American Hockey League (AHL) affiliate, for their training camp. The news first broke from PuckPedia, while Elliotte Friedman confirmed the details via Twitter.
Ethan Bear’s Journey
Ethan Bear, who is 27 years old, was looking to secure a spot on a crowded Capitals blue line. Washington recently added new defensemen, Jakob Chychrun and Matt Roy, intensifying competition for defensive positions.
Bear’s performance this preseason was under scrutiny:
- He played three games, logging 63:22 of ice time, the second highest on the team.
- However, he struggled defensively, allowing four goals during five-on-five play, resulting in a minus-5 differential in high-danger chances.
Last season, Bear participated in 24 games for the Capitals, contributing four points (1 goal, 3 assists). He has one year left on his contract, with a $2.1 million cap hit. His absence last spring was due to treatment through the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Sgarbossa’s Stats
Mike Sgarbossa, aged 32, also faced challenges. In the previous NHL season, he appeared in 25 games for the Capitals, gathering seven points (4 goals, 3 assists). His time with the Hershey Bears was impressive, where he led the team with 43 points (7G, 36A) before returning to the Capitals in February.
This preseason, Sgarbossa played four games but did not register any points. His competition for a forward spot includes Ivan Miroshnichenko, Jakub Vrana, and Andrew Cristall.
Luke Philp and Other Roster Moves
Luke Philp signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Capitals in July. Unfortunately, he has been sidelined due to injury since training camp began.
The Capitals are navigating a complex roster situation, and these moves suggest they are focused on maximizing their team’s potential for the approaching season.
Looking Ahead
As head coach Spencer Carbery continues to evaluate his team, he has discussed his philosophy regarding roster cuts. The Capitals must make strategic decisions to ensure they are competitive.
Adding to the excitement, Ted Leonsis, owner of the Capitals, has expressed interest in acquiring more sports teams in the region, which indicates a push for further investment in local sports.
Final Thoughts
The decisions made by the Washington Capitals as they place players on waivers reflect their commitment to building a competitive team. With the new NHL season around the corner, every roster move is crucial.
Fans will be keeping a close eye on whether Ethan Bear, Mike Sgarbossa, or Luke Philp will be picked up by other teams, or if they will join the Hershey Bears for more playing opportunities.
The Capitals are getting ready for their upcoming season, and they’re feeling hopeful! They’ve made some important changes to their team already, showing that they really want to do well this year.
