2 Surprising Cuts Capitals Made In Training Camp

Many players at the Washington Capitals' training camp fought very hard to have their name on the opening night roster. Unfortunately these two players were on the list of final cuts. They also both happened to be claimed on waivers, allowing us to further question the decision.

Brett Leason

Brett Leason played more games for the Capitals last season than he did for the Hershey Bears of the AHL. He was part of the group of call-ups that got their shot in the NHL last season. He played 36 games and recorded three goals and six points. He played in a fourth line role and was so close to at least making the Capitals as a 13th or 14th forward.

He is versatile and a big presence on the ice at 6'5. He is still just 23 years old and has potential, but has only put up big offensive numbers in his final season in the WHL. It's a little more surprising he was claimed, but shows there is interest there and a possible mistake made by the Capitals by cutting him. He got into 36 games for the Capitals for a reason last season, more than a number of others who were called up.

Axel Jonsson-Fjallby

Axel Jonsson-Fjallby was claimed last season by the Buffalo Sabres when the Capitals tried to send him down to the AHL. They claimed him right back a week later. This time the Winnipeg Jets are taking a shot at the young forward to hopefully add some depth to their forward group.

He was part of the call-ups last season and got into 23 games with the Capitals, recording two goals and four points. The 24-year-old is clearly sought after considering two teams have taken a chance on him through waivers in a year.