As a seventh defenseman, Taylor Chorney was one of the first to arrive at the Capitals’ practice facility for Tuesday’s optional morning skate. Having not played Saturday in Chicago, Chorney was ready to get the work in.
Instead, Chorney found out the Capitals were placing him on waivers.
If Chorney clears waivers, he will join the Capitals’ American Hockey League affiliate in Hershey.
But Capitals coach Barry Trotz admitted he hopes someone else will give Chorney an opportunity on the NHL level.
“I said with all due respect, I hope someone grabs him because he’s a valuable asset to any team,” Trotz said.
The Capitals acquiring defenseman Michal Kempny from the Chicago Blackhawks on Monday made Chorney expendable. By putting him on waivers, the Capitals freed up an extra roster spot and cleared $800,000 from their salary cap. Teams usually carry just seven defenseman, and with Chorney, the Capitals had eight.
Trotz said the decision was difficult because “Taylor was one of my favorites.”
“You talk about a pro, a guy that brings energy, a guy that can play, competes,” Trotz said. “A guy that doesn’t take a day off, all those things. When you have to deliver news like that first thing in the morning … that’s always a difficult task.”
Teams have until noon Wednesday to claim Chorney.
• Matthew Paras can be reached at mparas@washingtontimes.com.
Please read our comment policy before commenting.