As reported by Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Washington Capitals have placed forward Matthew Phillips on waivers. If Phillips clears waivers, he will be assigned to the AHL's Hershey Bears.
The move was necessitated by Sonny Milano nearing a return and potentially playing on Saturday. To make room for Milano's activation from the injured reserve, the team needed to clear a roster spot. While Mike Sgarbossa could have been an option, the team requires him at center as he fills in for Evgeny Kuznetsov, who is currently in the NHL/NHLPA Player Assistance Program.
Ultimately, Phillips was the odd man out, and this move could benefit him by providing more playing time elsewhere in the NHL or in Hershey, rather than being a healthy scratch for most games.
Phillips, 25, signed a one-year deal with Washington in July and made the opening night roster after an impressive showing at training camp. However, his consistency suffered due to limited ice time, resulting in him spending most of his time as the extra forward. In 27 games this season, Phillips has recorded one goal and four assists for five points.
