Friday morning, hours before they will try to avoid falling into a 2-0 series deficit in the Eastern Conference quarterfinals, the Washington Capitals recalled goaltender Philipp Grubauer from Hershey, a move apparently spurred by Braden Holtby’s health.
Holtby, who did not participate in Thursday’s optional skate along with six other teammates, had been feeling under the weather, so the Capitals summoned Grubauer as a precaution. The move is not believed to be related to a playing injury for Holtby, who this season tied franchise records for games played (73), wins (41) and shutouts (nine).
Grubauer appeared in one game for the Capitals this season, making 23 saves in a shootout win over Anaheim at Verizon Center on Feb.