The Washington Capitals will have a new alternate captain on the road against the Philadelphia Flyers on Wednesday night.
After Dylan Strome wore the “A” against the Boston Bruins and Calgary Flames, Matt Roy will be given a turn in Philadelphia. Head coach Spencer Carbery spoke about Roy being part of the group expected to step into the leadership void left by John Carlson’s trade to the Anaheim Ducks at the trade deadline.
“Yeah, I just think from the backend with John moving on, we’re going to need some leadership from the backend,” Carbery said. “Matt Roy, I think growing into a leadership role and where he’s at in his career and now being in his second year here, just feel like he’s a guy that can sort of step up.
“He’s not all of a sudden going to be John Carlson and be this vocal guy that’s, you know, the life of the party. But he has a lot to offer when it comes to leadership, and guys really respect him a lot with how he plays, how he leads by example. So, I think giving him that opportunity, he deserves it.”
Roy played his 500th career game against the Flames on Monday. He has featured in 62 games this season for the Capitals, recording 15 points (1g, 14a). The 31-year-old defender is averaging 20:43 time on ice per game, which is now second on the team after Carlson’s departure.
During his pro career, Roy has only served as an alternate captain once prior, taking the role for Team USA at the 2021 World Championship.
