Capitals Place Snively On Waivers, Finalizing Cuts For Backstrom, Wilson

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals had to make one final roster move to make space for Nicklas Backstrom and Tom Wilson, and in a difficult decision, they chose to place hometown forward Joe Snively on waivers.

Snively has until 2 p.m. on Sunday to clear waivers. If he does, he will be reassigned to the AHL's Hershey Bears.

It wasn't an easy choice, but with Sonny Milano proving to be a perfect fit on the top-6 and Nicolas Aube-Kubel stepping up his game over this last stretch, Snively was the odd man out following numerous healthy scratches.

The Herndon, V.A. native played in just six games this season. In 12 games last season, he had seven points. Overall, Snively has plenty of upside, and getting him more playing time is beneficial for him as a player, whether that's with Hershey or elsewhere if he gets claimed.

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In addition to waiving Snively, Washington also loaned Aliaksei Protas to Hershey to open a forward spot. Protas was the only waiver-exempt player on the team. Washington also placed John Carlson, who is out indefinitely after taking a slapshot to the face on Dec. 23, on long-term injured reserve, which opens cap space and allows Backstrom's salary to come back on the books.

Backstrom and Wilson are now back on the active roster and are set to make their season debuts on Sunday against the Columbus Blue Jackets.