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Small Rookie Steals The Roster Spot Of 6'5" 25-Goal Veteran

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James Connelly
October 8, 2023 (1:28 PM)

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A 5'7" rookie has stolen the roster spot of a 6'5" veteran who has scored 25 goals in his career.

Phillips' Surprising Rise

Throughout the past few years, Matthew Phillips has established himself as one of the best players in the AHL. Last year he scored 76 points in 66 games as the leading goalscorer on the Calgary Wranglers.

This past offseason he signed a deal with the Washington Capitals and it is looking like it was one of the more underrated signings of the offseason. In the preseason, Phillips played well and even developed chemistry with Alex Ovechkin.

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It now looks like Phillips has stolen the roster spot of forward Anthony Mantha.

Phillips Steals Mantha's Spot

In a recent report from Washington Hockey Now, it appears that Phillips has stolen the roster spot of Anthony Mantha, a former 25-goal scorer and veteran.

Mantha's struggles in Washington have seemingly continued this preseason � a less than ideal scenario for both sides, especially as Mantha enters a contract year. I think he would be better served in an extras role, placing a little less pressure on him to turn things around. Plus, his versatility in being able to play both wing positions increases the Capitals' roster flexibility.

If Phillips does take Mantha's spot, he could help the Capitals clear out some cap space as Mantha is over $4 million more expensive than Phillips.

We will now wait for opening night to see what is happening but there is certainly a chance we see Mantha hit waivers.

As seen on Markerzone - 5'7 Rookie Officially Steals Capitals Roster Spot From 25-Goal Scorer

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POLL
8 OCTOBRE \| 22 ANSWERS Small Rookie Steals The Roster Spot Of 6'5" 25-Goal Veteran Will Mantha hit waivers this year?
Yes	10	45.5 %
No	12	54.5 %
LIST OF POLLS