The Washington Capitals are currently experiencing a strong 2024-25 NHL season, leading the Metropolitan Division with an impressive record of 50-20-9 and accumulating a total of 109 points. But two things can be true at the same time. The Caps may be dominating, but they’re also leaking goals like nobody’s business. And while usually their offense can help out by just scoring more goals, that offense has been notably absent during their consecutive losses against the Columbus Blue Jackets, where they suffered a significant 7-0 shutout and then a 4-1 defeat. Defense is clearly the name of the game, and it looks like the Caps are about to shore up theirs.

The recent performance of the Washington Capitals has raised concerns among fans, who are eager to witness the team hoist the cup in just a few months. And the franchise has made a move that’s got some fans excited.

On X, the official account of the Washington Capitals announced, “NEWS | The Capitals have recalled goaltender Clay Stevenson from the Hershey Bears. In addition, the Capitals have loaned goaltender Hunter Shepard to Hershey.” The Capitals’ recent roster adjustment reflects a calculated strategy aimed at enhancing their goaltending depth in anticipation of the postseason.

Clay Stevenson has shown impressive results in the AHL, positioning him as a credible candidate to bolster their roster in crucial matchups. On the other hand, Hunter Shepard, a familiar face in past recalls, makes his way back to Hershey, where he can secure steady playing time and keep his performance sharp.

Through this strategic management of their goaltending assets, the Capitals guarantee the availability of a prepared and capable goaltender for NHL responsibilities, while simultaneously nurturing the growth and preparedness of their prospects in the AHL. What are the fans’ thoughts on this?

A good decision from the Washington Capitals

Despite the Washington Capitals’ recent games falling short of expectations, their fans are expressing a surprising sense of satisfaction with this shift. One remarked, “Good. I’m not going to write Shepherd off yet as an NHL emergency callup, but his play against Columbus made me think we have to see if Stevenson can be a better choice.” What’s the reason behind that?

Recently, Shepard took to the ice for the Capitals in their 7-0 defeat against the Columbus Blue Jackets. During that match, Shepard encountered 26 shots, successfully saving 19 while conceding seven goals, which led to a save percentage of .731 and a goals-against average (GAA) of 7.00. His sole NHL appearance for the 2024-25 season has left fans optimistic about his potential future with the Caps.

In the words of another supporter, “Best of luck in Washington Clay and in Hershey Shep!!” This supporter is thrilled about Stevenson. “Correct decision. Give him a game.” Stevenson has emerged as a remarkable goaltender for the Hershey Bears in the 2024-25 AHL season. Throughout the 36 regular-season games, he achieved a record of 24 wins, 10 losses, and 2 overtime losses, boasting a goals-against average of 2.06 and a save percentage of .922, complemented by seven shutouts. It was clear that he received a call from the Caps.

With palpable enthusiasm, this admirer expressed, “Wait I’m seated I love him.” A fan speculated on the future of the AHL goalie, stating, “Something tells me we will see Clay Stevenson’s NHL debut this week.” The Caps find themselves with just two regular-season games left on the schedule. These upcoming games present an excellent opportunity to evaluate their new goaltender ahead of the playoffs.