Shocking: Capitals Confirmed Loosing A Gifted Veteran Star Player Due To

After Friday’s practice, the Washington Capitals announced that defenseman Ethan Bear and forward Michael Sgarbossa have been placed on waivers. Bear, who signed a two-year contract with the team on December 28, 2023, had a challenging season, participating in 24 games and contributing four points (one goal and three assists) while also taking time off to receive care from the NHL/NHLPA player assistance program.

Sgarbossa had a more productive season, splitting his time between Washington and the Hershey Bears. He played 25 games for the Capitals, scoring four goals and adding three assists for a total of seven points. In Hershey, he excelled, amassing 43 points (seven goals and 36 assists) over 44 games and playing a role in the Bears’ 2023 Calder Cup victory, where he contributed one goal and two assists in the postseason.

With Bear on waivers, defenseman Dylan McIlrath is now in a stronger position to secure a spot on the Capitals’ final 23-man roster. McIlrath has impressed during training camp and preseason. Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery noted McIlrath’s growth, stating, “He definitely is in the mix. Based on his performance last year, his training camp, and his time in Hershey, he’s shown significant improvement. He believes he’s become a better defenseman over time, which is a valuable quality.”