Capitals Recall Goaltender Clay Stevenson for Must-Win Game 5

ARLINGTON, Va. – The Washington Capitals have recalled goaltender Clay Stevenson from the Hershey Bears of the American Hockey League (AHL) as they prepare for a crucial Game 5 against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Stevenson, 26, posted an 18-8-4 record during the regular season with a 2.94 goals-against average and an .888 save percentage in 33 games. The Capitals announced the recall on May 15, just hours before the elimination game.

In his playoff debut on May 9, Stevenson stopped 28 of 32 shots in a must-win Game 4 for the Bears. His performance helped Hershey avoid elimination in the Atlantic Division Semifinals. On April 17, he made his NHL debut against the Pittsburgh Penguins, where he achieved 33 saves.

During the 2023-24 AHL season, Stevenson’s performance was impressive, achieving a 24-10-2 record, a 2.06 goals-against average, and leading the league with seven shutouts. This achievement tied the Bears’ single-season shutout record.

Stevenson’s accolades include a selection to the 2024 AHL All-Star Classic and receiving the Harry “Hap” Holmes Memorial Award for the fewest goals allowed per game alongside teammate Hunter Shepard. In his career with the Bears, he has accumulated a record of 45 wins and 18 losses across 72 games.

The Capitals hold a 3-1 series deficit against the Hurricanes, and their coach indicated a need for every available player due to the elimination risk. Logan Thompson is expected to start again in net, with Stevenson now joining the roster as an emergency backup.

Stevenson signed a two-year entry-level contract with the Capitals on March 28, 2022, after a successful collegiate career at Dartmouth College, where he earned multiple awards and distinctions.