Photo: NHL.com
The Washington Capitals announced on Sunday that they have recalled goaltender Zach Fucale from the AHL’s Hershey Bears after Vitek Vanecek left the team’s 3-2 overtime victory over the Boston Bruins with a lower-body injury and did not return.
In 11 games this season, the 25-year-old went 9-2-0 with a .932 save percentage, a 1.80 goals-against average, and a shutout.
Elite Coach š„š¢š¦š§šš„ š š¢š©š: The @Capitals have recalled goaltender @Fucale31 from Hershey. pic.twitter.com/aymDlAmZxc
ā y – Hershey Bears (@TheHersheyBears) May 16, 2021
The Montreal Canadiens drafted him 36th overall in 2013 and signed a one-year, two-way contract with the Capitals on August 19. He made stops with the Vegas Golden Knights and Tampa Bay Lightning in the past two seasons.
Fucale has yet to play an NHL game in his career. More on Fucale here.
Goaltender Ilya Samsonov came off of COVID-19 protocol on Saturday and skated during the Capitals’ optional practice on Sunday. He will likely need a few practice days before being able to suit up for game action, though.
Goaltender Craig Anderson made 21 saves on 22 shots in relief after taking over the net in Game 1.
By Harrison Brown
