Capitals set opening day roster and make additional roster moves.
The Washington Capitals have set the opening day roster for their season opener on Friday, October 13th, against the Pittsburgh Penguins. The team did bring back the normal stars that have been on the team for a while such as Evgeny Kuznetsov, Alex Ovechkin, T.J. Oshie and others.
While the team has brought back the regulars, some of the surprising roster moves have been, Matthew Philips who weighs 140 pounds. This is his first time in his career that he has made an NHL team out of training camp. Connor McMichael who was a healthy scratch while he was on the roster last season.
Forward Max Pacioretty is starting the season on long term injured reserve as he continues to heal from a serious leg injury.
On Defense, the team has a good mix of experience and youth. Alex Alexeyev, Martin Fehervary, Rasmus Sandin all made the team. They will be teamed with players like John Carlson, Nick Jensen, Trevor van Riemsdyk. Newly acquired defenseman Joel Edmundson is on injured reserve as he continues to heal a broken hand suffered in the preseason.
The goaltending duo from last season is back with Darcy Kuemper taking the reigns as starter and Charlie Lindgren being his backup.
This year, new coach Spencer Carbery is mixing in a lot of youth with a lot of experience. This will hopefully help increase the speed on the ice, so goaltenders and defenders are not left hanging in odd man rushes. By infusing youth and speed with players who have experience, the Capitals have a good chance at surprising teams and showcasing more skill than originally thought.
