The Washington Capitals loaned Dylan McIlrath to the Hershey Bears, the teams’ American Hockey League affiliate, on Nov. 2, 2026. Washington senior vice president and general manager Chris Patrick announced the transaction. McIlrath has appeared in four games with the Capitals during the 2026-27 season.
The 34-year-old defenseman previously played for the Hershey Bears from 2021 through 2024. He recorded 32 points on seven goals and 25 assists, along with 301 penalty minutes, in 192 games.
Dylan McIlrath Brings Championship Experience
McIlrath served as captain of the Hershey Bears during back-to-back Calder Cup championships in 2023 and 2024. He appeared in all 43 playoff games played by Hershey during those championship runs and recorded six points on two goals and four assists.
The Winnipeg, Manitoba, native represented Hershey as a playing captain at the 2024 American Hockey League All-Star Classic in San Jose. He has played 618 career AHL games with Hershey, Grand Rapids, Springfield and Hartford/Connecticut, recording 122 points on 30 goals and 92 assists.
McIlrath won a third Calder Cup championship with Grand Rapids in 2017. He has also appeared in 109 NHL games with Washington, Detroit, Florida and the New York Rangers, recording nine points on three goals and six assists.
Hershey Bears Host Hartford Wolf Pack on Nov. 4
The Hershey Bears will host the Hartford Wolf Pack on Wednesday, Nov. 4, at 7 p.m. at GIANT Center for Milton Hershey School Takeover Night. The game is part of the 2026-27 season presented by Penn State Health.
The first 5,000 fans will receive a wrapped chocolate bar, courtesy of Milton Hershey School.
Maryland Sports Blog Take
McIlrath returns to the Hershey Bears with experience from the team’s 2023 and 2024 Calder Cup championship runs. His leadership role and 43 playoff appearances during those title runs provide established Hershey experience as the team prepares to host Hartford.
Source: Original report
