Washington Capitals Recall Goalie Philipp Grubauer, Face Flyers at 6 PM EST

The Capitals have recalled goalie Phillip Grubauer from AHL Hershey as Michael Neuvirth continues to recover from taking a shot in the mask in yesterday’s morning skate. Neuvirth said yesterday in Buffalo that he was dealing with sore teeth and a sore jaw, and the injuries have apparently not yet subsided.

Mar. 9, 2013; Uniondale, NY, USA; Washington Capitals goalie Philipp Grubauer (31) makes a glove save against the New York Islanders during the first period at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Debby Wong-USA TODAY Sports

The Capitals medical staff has not yet decided whether or not Neuvirth has a concussion, but regardless it appears he will be out for the next few games.

Neuvirth was scheduled to make the start against the Flyers tonight and give starter Braden Holtby a break, but Holtby will be forced to make his eighth straight start on short notice. Grubauer could potentially make the start on Tuesday against the Carolina Hurricanes, though the Capitals may elect to go with Holtby yet again with the game being so crucial for the team’s playoff chances.

In 21 games with Hershey this season, the 21-year old Grubauer has gone 11-6-2 in 21 games. Grubauer has recorded two shutouts, and has a .924 save percentage. He’s also spent time with Washington and the ECHL’s Reading, where he went 19-5-1.

The Capitals face the Flyers at 6 PM EST and look to continue inching their way back to a winning record. Washington is 6-4 in its last 10 games, but will need to capitalize on recent momentum to avoid another post-streak slump.

For D.C. area viewers, tonight’s game can be seen on CSN Washington.