The Washington Capitals brought up Ivan Miroshnichenko from the Hershey Bears on Monday morning due to uncertainties in their lineup for upcoming back-to-back games. With TJ Oshie on injured reserve and Anthony Mantha a game-time decision against the Ottawa Senators, Miroshnichenko’s recall adds depth to the team.
Miroshnichenko joins several other Hershey Bears regulars in the Capitals lineup or roster, including Michael Sgarbossa, Pierrick Dubé, and Hendrix Lapierre, filling in for Evgeny Kuznetsov, TJ Oshie, and Nic Dowd, who have been absent due to injuries. The Capitals have suffered injuries in four consecutive games, with Martin Fehervary and Nick Jensen also on the sidelines.
While Miroshnichenko’s recent production in Hershey has slowed, Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery emphasized his previous NHL experience this season as a factor in the decision to recall him over other options like Ethen Frank and Joe Snively. Frank has been out of action since February 9 due to injury, making Miroshnichenko a more viable choice.
Despite the likelihood that Miroshnichenko may not play, the recall benefits the young Russian forward, allowing him to be around the Capitals during their week off and providing him with the opportunity to learn from and be inspired by players like Alex Ovechkin, whom he idolizes. Additionally, the Capitals’ Russian-speaking players and support staff can aid in his development.
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