The Washington Capitals have placed have placed forward Nathan Walker on waivers. This is likely to prepare for Travis Boyd‘s return from injured reserve, as the Capitals need to make more room on their roster.

Donovan (NASH), Walker (WASH) on waivers. Ehliz (CAL) on unconditionals — Elliotte Friedman (@FriedgeHNIC) November 4, 2018

Walker has had a tough go at making the Capitals roster as a permanent fixture. Last season, Walker was put on waivers by the Capitals, picked up by the Edmonton Oilers, put on waivers again by the Oilers, and ended up back in the Capitals organization before finishing off the season on the Stanley Cup-winning roster.

Walker has played in three games on the Capitals’ fourth line this season. Walker has one primary assist in 22 minutes of ice time. The Capitals have generated 10 scoring chances and only allowed eight when Walker is on the ice. Walker’s play has been adequate for a fourth-liner in the NHL, but the Capitals’ forward depth makes it difficult to maintain a spot in the line-up.

The strong play of Dmitrij Jaskin is the main reason why Walker cannot break into the team. Jaskin has been one of the Capitals’ best players through his opening nine games in Washington. The Capitals have out-attempted opponents 93 to 54, generated 45 scoring chances while allowing 25, and produced 18 high danger chances while only allowing 11 with Jaskin on the ice.

Boyd was battling with Nic Dowd for the fourth line center spot in the Capitals training camp. He earned a spot on the Caps roster with his strong showing, but blocked a slapshot by St. Louis Blues defenseman Vince Dunn in a preseason game. Boyd has been week-to-week, after wearing a protective boot on his foot, but recently started practicing with the Caps again, and completed a short conditioning stint with the Caps’ AHL affiliate, the Hershey Bears.

Further moves will have to be made when Tom Wilson returns from his 20-game suspension.