Nate Schmidt Recalled by Washington, Steve Oleksy Assigned

The Washington Capitals have announced they have recalled Nate Schmidt from Hershey. The 22-year-old defenseman’s call-up is his second of the season. In 28 games this year, Schmidt has produced six points, with two goals and four assists.

The blue liner has only played 16 games in Hershey this year, but has been a key part of the Bears recent turn around. In nine games this January, Schmidt has three assists and 27 shots on goal and has played on the top power play pairing since his return from Washington.

The Capitals also announced Steve Oleksy has cleared wavers and was assigned to Hershey. Oleksy was signed to a three year deal last season by Washington after starting the season on an AHL contract with Hershey. The 27-year-old has not dressed for Hershey since March 3rd, 2013, when he recorded two points in Hershey’s 5-3 win over Syracuse. Since his signing with Washington, the Chesterfield, MI native has played in 61 NHL games with the red and blue, quickly becoming a fan favorite like he was in Hershey.

In other transaction news, the Bears have returned Riley Gill to Reading after Philipp Grubauer’s re-assignment to Chocolate Town.

Hershey will faceoff against Syracuse Friday night. You can watch the game at 7pm on abc27.2 RTV.