The Washington Capitals have recalled defenseman Ryan Stanton from their American Hockey League affiliate, the team announced on Friday. With John Carlson and Brooks Orpik still on injured reserve with unspecified lower-body injuries, Stanton will likely be the team’s extra defenseman until Carlson or Orpik are activated.
Capitals Coach Barry Trotz said neither veteran blue-liner would travel with the team to Buffalo for Saturday night’s game. Both have skated with trainer Mark Nemish before team practices this week.
Washington had recalled Stanton before its game at Columbus on Jan. 2, but he was scratched for every game until he was re-assigned when center Marcus Johansson got suspended for two games for an illegal hit.