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Washington Capitals: Zach Sanford Is Here To Stay

By Dylan Botelho

Feb 11, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Zach Sanford (82) celebrates with teammates after scoring the go-ahead goal against the Anaheim Ducks late in the third period at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 6-4. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 11, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals left wing Zach Sanford (82) celebrates with teammates after scoring the go-ahead goal against the Anaheim Ducks late in the third period at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 6-4. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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With an injury to Andre Burakovsky, the Washington Capitals recalled both Zach Sanford and Jakub Vrana. One young man’s presence has been felt.

Andre Burakovsky’s hand injury left a gaping hole in the Washington Capitals third line. It was also an opportunity for one lucky Hershey Bear to prove he can produce on an NHL team.

Barry Trotz had two young men compete for the open slot, Zach Sanford and Jakub Vrana. Vrana, the Capitals first round draft-pick in 2014, seemed to be obvious choice among fans. It was Vrana’s spot to lose, and that he did.

Zach Sanford was Trotz’s choice to slot into Burakovsky’s spot on the third line. Sanford started his run with the Capitals one game before the bye-week and hasn’t yet slowed down.

Washington Capitals
Washington Capitals /

Washington Capitals

Sanford started strong, scoring his first career NHL goal, the game-winner just before the bye-week. A week later, Sanford was at it again scoring against the Detroit Red Wings.

Vrana was subsequently sent back down to the Capitals AHL affiliate, the Hershey Bears.

Sanford’s first few stints with the Capitals did not go nearly as well. In 20 games with the Capitals, Sanford only notched on assist.

There’s a clear difference in his game, thanks to new-found confidence. Much of that confidence comes from his time this season with Hershey.

A boost in ice-time has prepared Sanford for the jump up to the NHL. With Hershey, Sanford tallied 11 goals and 5 assists in 25 games.

Sanford touched on his time with the Bears and the effect it’s made on his performance with the Capitals saying, “Just being down there and getting the ice time and the touches and getting some points and making plays is huge for my confidence. It definitely shows when I got back up here, I feel a lot more comfortable, a lot more confident with the puck.”

What’s next for Zach Sanford after Burakovsky’s return?

While Sanford has impressed in Burakovsky’s absence, the question on whether or not he’ll stay in Washington is one that will play a big role for the remainder of Capitals season.

The Capitals placed Burakovsky on IR yesterday, which requires him to be out for at least 10 scheduled games. According to Trotz however, he is expected to be out until mid-to-late March.

In Burakovsky’s extended absence, Sanford is poised to hold his spot on the third line; however, he will be pushed out of that spot when Burakovsky returns. Burakovsky is years ahead of Sanford production wise, although both only 22 years old.

The unfortunate injury to Burakovsky has allowed the Capitals to evaluate their offensive depth. Sanford could very well be an important asset for the Capitals once Burakovsky returns.

It’s important to note that the Capitals could begin resting players late in the season to prepare for the playoffs. Sanford could slot into almost any role on the offense and still produce with the right help.

It’s likely he’ll fluctuate between the AHL and NHL like top prospects often do. The Capitals could also decide to keep Sanford on for the playoffs in case of an emergency. One thing is for certain, Sanford is in fact NHL ready.

Next: Washington Capitals at Philadelphia Flyers Post-Game Review

This offseason, Justin Williams and Brett Connolly are set to be unrestricted free agents. Sanford possibly could secure a permanent roster spot come next season if he continues to impress.

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