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Capitals call up Burakovsky

Andre Burakovsky

Andre Burakovsky

AP

The Washington Capitals recalled forward Andre Burakovsky on Thursday as they ready for a game against the Minnesota Wild.

It may be a sign that Michael Latta could miss some time after Tuesday’s violent contest against the Columbus Blue Jackets (with a Jared Boll hit possibly being what’s causing him his biggest issues), as the Washington Post’s Alex Prewitt notes.

To some degree, it’s almost a little surprising that Burakovsky was demoted in the first place. The 20-year-old has been a quick study at the NHL level in many ways, showing some ability to skate with Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom (among other positive signs).

The Capitals sent him down to make sure he had playing time, however, and Barry Trotz provided some glowing remarks about Burakovsky to Prewitt a few days ago.

“Every time we’ve put him in the lineup, he’s done a fantastic job for us. And he’s still learning. He’s still learning. He’s bright,” Trotz said. “I’ve got Burt penciled in for top-six forward for the next 15 years in his career. That’s where he’s headed. Is he there? Some games he’s there; some games he’s not. He’s still in the development stage. But you’re not going to find a better person or a better player who’s eager to do well.”

Let us all note that his nickname is “Burt,” by the way. That information could be exceedingly useful in the future ...

Follow James O’Brien @cyclelikesedins