The ex-Capitals winger will be headed to Pittsburgh.
The Washington Capitals had to part ways with Matthew Phillips on Friday, as he is on his way to the rival Pittsburgh Penguins after they claimed him off waivers.
Phillips was placed on waivers on Thursday in order to make space for Sonny Milano, who is set to return from an upper-body injury that has sidelined him for the last two months and change. He would have been assigned to the AHL's Hershey Bears if he cleared.
The 5-foot-8 forward, who signed a one-year contract with the Capitals in July, had won a roster spot out of training camp following a stellar preseason. However, his consistency took a hit in wake of limited minutes, and he ended up spending the majority of his tenure as a healthy scratch.
In 27 games with Washington, Phillips had a goal and four assists. He scored his first NHL goal with the organization on Oct. 16 against the Calgary Flames, who gave him his first chance at the pros.
While it's disappointing for D.C. to lose a depth player like Phillips, who would have provided even more of a boost to the already-impressive Bears, the move is one that will allow Phillips to get more ice time and opportunity with a different organization.
The Capitals are headed to Montreal for a rematch with the Canadiens on Saturday, where Milano will make his return to the lineup. He is eligible to come off the injured reserve now that the team has opened a roster spot.