It’s time for the Capitals to trade Michal Neuvirth

Michal Neuvirth [2-3-1, 2.83, .912], whose agent has requested a trade, has not played since Nov. 22.

So, are the Caps ready to make this a long-term commitment to Grubauer, who is 5-2-2 with a 2.02 goals-against average and .938 save percentage?

“I think we’ve all seen that since he came here he’s given us a little bit of a feeling of confidence,” Oates said. “I think the players feel that, we feel that and because of that it’s good for him. He’s earned it.”

But what about moving forward? Is it time for the Capitals to cut bait with Neuvirth, who still believes he can be a starter in the NHL but is trapped as a third goalie in Washington?

At what point will the Caps decide whether Grubauer is here to stay?

“That’s a difficult situation,” Oates said. “I’m sure it’ll play itself out.”