The longest tenured athlete in Washington has just been waived. Announced by Bob McKenzie, Caps forward Brooks Laich has been placed on waivers.

Laich (WSH), Porter (MIN), Talbot (BOS) on waivers. — Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) February 27, 2016

Laich’s contract ($4.5m against the salary cap) is the primary obstacle in Brian MacLellan’s path to making trade deadline improvements. If Laich could not be traded, this is the next best option.

If Laich clears waivers, which is the likeliest outcome, the Caps will gain $950k in salary cap space. That would be enough space to re-activate Jay Beagle, but it might not be enough space to make additional deals before Monday’s deadline.

Laich has played 742 games in his NHL career, all but one of them for the Washington Capitals. He was acquired in 2004 from the Ottawa Senators in exchange for Peter Bondra.

A three-time 20-goal scorer, Laich’s play deteriorated after the 2013 lockout, when Laich injured his groin while playing for the Kloten Flyers.

Laich has scored one goal on 65 shots in 59 games this season. With one exception (game two, in early October), Laich’s role has been entirely on the fourth line this season.

We will know by noon tomorrow if Laich clears waers. Sunday’s game begins at 12:30 PM, which leaves just enough time to re-activate Beagle before puck drop.

UPDATE:

https://twitter.com/Chris_Gordon/status/703640870243926016