The Washington Capitals have placed forward Sonny Milano on NHL waivers as of Wednesday. This move comes after the team activated Connor McMichael from injured reserve, resulting in a full 23-man roster that requires opening a spot.
All 31 other NHL teams have 24 hours to claim Milano off waivers. If he goes unclaimed, the Capitals will assign him to their American Hockey League affiliate, the Hershey Bears.
Team Decisions Influenced by Roster and Player Status
Milano has been a frequent healthy scratch this season, appearing in 31 games and recording a total of eight points, split evenly between four goals and four assists. The 29-year-old winger entered the latest training camp without a guaranteed place on the Capitals’ final roster, following a limited season last year where injury restricted him to just three games.
Since signing with the Capitals in 2022, Milano has spent some time with the Hershey Bears, producing three points in five games during an AHL stint. Currently, he carries a $1.9 million salary cap hit and is set to become an unrestricted free agent after this season.
Roster Update Connected to Connor McMichael’s Return
Connor McMichael’s activation was the key factor prompting Milano’s waiver placement. McMichael, who missed the final four games before the Olympic break due to an injury sustained against the Detroit Red Wings on January 29, has contributed 31 points (eight goals and 23 assists) over 55 games this season. He is expected to return to the Capitals’ lineup as they face the Philadelphia Flyers at Capital One Arena on Wednesday after the break.
Next Steps and Potential Impact on the Capitals’ Lineup
If Milano clears waivers, his reassignment to the Hershey Bears could provide him with more playing time, allowing the Capitals to maintain roster flexibility moving toward the playoffs. His status as an unrestricted free agent this summer also leaves open questions regarding his long-term fit with the team.
Adjusting the roster through waivers and injury returns is a strategic necessity for the Capitals, reflecting the dynamic nature of NHL roster management during a demanding season.
“As the Capitals indicated earlier, Sonny Milano is on waivers” ?Elliotte Friedman, NHL Broadcaster
“Sonny Milano will go on waivers this afternoon, per the Capitals, and has been designated as non-roster. He’ll go to Hershey if he clears.” ?Katie Adler, Capitals Reporter
As the Capitals indicated earlier, Sonny Milano is on waivers
— Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) February 25, 2026
Sonny Milano will go on waivers this afternoon, per the Capitals, and has been designated as non-roster. He'll go to Hershey if he clears. https://t.co/nzFmux1lCQ
— Katie Adler (@katieEadler) February 25, 2026
