With Braden Holtby nicked up, the Washington Capitals recalled Pheonix Copley on Thursday from the American Hockey League.
Holtby collided with Dallas Stars forward Remi Elie during the third period of Tuesday’s 4-3 win. The Capitals goaltender did not participate in Wednesday’s optional skate as part of a “maintenance day.” Capitals coach Barry Trotz told reporters in Detroit that Holtby “tweaked something.”
Holtby participated in Thursday’s morning skate, but the Capitals still called up Copley.
“We’re just trying to make sure he’s okay,” Trotz told reporters. “He’s doing fine.”
Philipp Grubauer will get the start Thursday against the Detroit Red Wings, which was previously planned before Holtby’s injury.
Trotz said Monday he planned to alternate between Grubauer and Holtby down the stretch. Holtby recorded his second straight win Tuesday after previously losing seven of his last eight games.
Copley, meanwhile, has spent the entire season with the Hershey Bears, the Capitals’ AHL affiliate. He is 14-16-6 with a .898 save percentage.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
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