In a pretty stunning turn of events, Alexander Semin, one of the four members of the "Young Guns" core of the Washington Capitals, will be a healthy scratch for the team's game against the Phoenix Coyotes, according to Mike Vogel of the team's website. The move was hinted at on Sunday when Semin was demoted to the fourth line, but now, it has become a reality.
Semin's performance has deteriorated all season, as he has taken a whopping 14 minor penalties this season and has seen his scoring fall off. Nevertheless, a demotion to being a healthy scratch is a major shift for coach Bruce Boudreau, who himself is feeling the heat for the Capitals' recent struggles. The Capitals are 3-7-1 in their last 11 games.
Semin did not participate in the team's morning skate. Mathieu Perreault will be in the lineup in Semin's place.
For more on Semin and the Capitals, visit Japers' Rink.