The Washington Capitals have activated goaltender Hunter Shepard from the AHL's Hershey Bears, responding to Logan Thompson's upper-body injury that will sideline him for a spell. Shepard, 29, boasts a solid AHL season with a 2.81 GAA and .891 save percentage, tying for second in wins. Last season, he delivered a commendable performance with the Capitals, achieving a 2.1-1-1 record. His NHL debut on October 25, 2023, saw him triumph against the New Jersey Devils. Recently, he was pivotal in the Bears' Calder Cup championship run, earning accolades for his outstanding play, including the Aldege “Baz” Bastien Memorial Award. The Capitals face the Chicago Blackhawks next, with Charlie Lindgren set to start in net.