While the entire hockey world is focused on the trade deadline, there are still games to be played over the next few days. The six matches on the schedule for this evening include another entertaining bout between the Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes, two teams that continue to do battle in the Metropolitan Division. The Hurricanes are on top but have lost two in a row, while the surging Capitals are on a three-game win streak and now just three points out of a divisional playoff spot. As they and others prepare for action, we’ll keep track of all the minor shuffling.
Atlantic Division
- Last night the Toronto Maple Leafs made a curious roster move, adding Alex Steeves under emergency conditions while Wayne Simmonds gained non-roster status. The team clarified today that it was for personal reasons and Simmonds would be added back today, and he was with the group again at practice according to Mark Masters of TSN. The team will have to move Steeves (or someone else) off the roster to officially add Simmonds back.
- The Detroit Red Wings have assigned defenseman Luke Witkowski to the AHL’s Grand Rapids Griffins. Witkowski, 31, is on his second tour of duty in Detroit and is best known for playing a throwback “enforcer” style of hockey that has become increasingly rare in today’s game.
Metropolitan Division
Central Division
- The Arizona Coyotes have assigned Michael Carcone back to the AHL, after he played his second NHL game earlier this week. The 25-year-old forward is a top option in the minor leagues but is still without a single point at the highest level.
Pacific Division
- The Anaheim Ducks have returned Danny O’Regan to San Diego of the AHL. He has played just four games with Anaheim this season, recording one assist but he has been more productive in the minors with the Gulls, picking up 26 points in 37 games.
This page will be updated throughout the day.