Capitals recall Bourque, assign Varlamov to AHL

ARLINGTON, Va. (AP) -- The Washington Capitals on Monday recalled forward Chris Bourque from Hershey Bears of the AHL and assigned goaltender Simeon Varlamov to Hershey.

Varlamov has had two stints with the Capitals this month. He was sent down after winning his first two NHL starts Dec. 13 and Dec. 18, then was recalled Thursday to serve as the backup because of Brent Johnson's hip injury.

Johnson is doing better and is expected to be in uniform for Tuesday's game at Buffalo.

Bourque has eight goals and 20 assists in 27 games for Hershey this season.

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