(Caps Outsider)
On Tuesday, the Capitals officially clinched a playoff spot. Although it was more of a formality at this point, it can be a huge opportunity for some players. One player in particular might be Stanislav Galiev.
Galiev has appeared in 21 total games for the Caps in his career, and has a goal and three assists. His lone goal came in the final game of the regular season last year. Galiev has spent most of his time in the press box this season, as he’s only played in 19 games. Galiev was rumored to be on the trading block around the deadline but the Caps were not “comfortable with cutting the cord” said Brian MacLellan.
Galiev is in a tricky position, as he would need to clear waivers if he was sent to Hershey. He’s under contract through the 2016-2017 season, at which point he will be a restricted free agent. With the Caps just needing to formally clinch the President’s Trophy, expect Galiev to get more playing time, as some forwards get short breaks to heal up, and so the Caps have a better read on him for the future.
