It looks like Devante Smith-Pelly’s strong performance in Washington Capitals’ run to win the Stanley Cup last season wasn’t enough for him to keep his job. Smith-Pelly struggled with production this season and Capitals now decided to move on from the 26-year-old winger.
Devante Smith-Pelly joined the Capitals in 2017, signing a two-way contract with the team. He went on to display some spectacular play during the 2018 postseason, which included seven goals, and the team decided to give him a one-year, $1 million contract as a result. Smith-Pelly, however, didn’t continue in the same rhythm this season, managing only four goals and four assists in 54 games.
Another reason for why Washington Capitals decided to move on from Smith-Pelly is cap space relief ahead of Monday’s trade deadline. The team initially intended to waive Dmitrij Jaskin but changed their mind after the last practice.
“Right now, there is a lot of movement going on, especially for teams that are salary-capped strapped like we are,” said Capitals’ coach Todd Reirden. “Earlier in the day, we had made the decision to put Jaskin on waivers, and we changed our mind and were notified during practice. We made that adjustment and now Devante has been put on waivers.”
Besides Washington, Devante Smith-Pelly also played with Anaheim Ducks, Montreal Canadiens, and New Jersey Devils during his time in NHL. His career NHL stats include 40 goals and 53 assists in 341 games played.
