When he signed a one-year contract to remain with the Capitals after a Cinderella story-like run last season, it was expected right wing Devante Smith-Pelly would pick up where he left off in the Capitals’ run to the franchise’s first-ever Stanley Cup. However, through two rounds of roster cuts, four preseason games, and numerous practices, the postseason standout has yet to appear in a game for the team, and that doesn’t seem set to change anytime soon.
In his press conference with the media earlier today, Head Coach Todd Reirden confirmed that Smith-Pelly would not play in tomorrow’s preseason game against the St. Louis Blues. When pressed on whether the circumstances regarding his player’s absence was injury-related, Reirden somewhat avoided the question, responding, “When he’s ready to play, he’ll play”.
Head Coach Todd Reirden on tomorrow’s lineup, Vrana’s breakout in the playoffs, and more #ALLCAPS pic.twitter.com/UAXWDPNLaH
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 24, 2018
The question now becomes what it is that is keeping arguably, one of the Caps’ most valuable contributors in their championship run (eight points – including seven key goals – in 24 games played) out of the lineup (albeit a preseason one).
While there has been speculation ranging from a fitness or conditioning issue, to the aforementioned injury, the team is keeping tight-lipped on the matter as a whole. With Smith-Pelly participating in practice and training camp, it seems doubtful it is an injury-related issue.
Reirden has repeatedly stated that it is due to Smith-Pelly “not being at the level he was at last year”, which, is somewhat of a broad answer when one considers how much of an impact the 26-year old winger had last season. However, the longer Smith-Pelly remains out of the lineup, the question will become whether he will miss regular season action as a result. As the Capitals have remained mum on the entire situation and circumstances surrounding it up until now, it is likely the answers will only be revealed in time.
By Michael Fleetwood
Reirden better not be screwing DSP that dude was a key cog in this teams success. If he has a injury or something judt say it but dont secretly try and push him to the side or something to open another roster spot for a young inexperienced player that’ll burn us down the road when you need a hardnosed grinder like DSP with playoff success
Overweight? Out of condition?
from what is said here it sounds like he’s way out of condition.
I would say that the 4th line has little impact in most games。。。 not a concern
Pingback: All The News Leading Up To Hurricanes-Capitals: Preseason Game #6 | NoVa Caps
Pingback: Three Capitals Players Who Need To Step Up In The Stretch Run Of The Season | NoVa Caps