As center Mike Richards progressed quicker than the Washington Capitals expected, a related dilemma neared with his anticipated debut. The addition of Richards meant the team now had five forwards for three fourth-line spots, so if Richards was in, who was out?
The last two games have been an audition for the fourth line. Richards has seemingly passed, getting more ice time than expected after shining on faceoffs and the penalty kill. Who the wingers will be on the fourth line is still unclear.
Richards centered Zach Sill and Michael Latta against the Buffalo Sabres on Saturday night, and Coach Barry Trotz was happy with the performance of that forward trio.