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‘He needs to get in the gym’: Capitals first-round pick Terik Parascak healthy-scratched opening weekend as Bears take patient approach with prospect

HERSHEY, PA — While Lynden Lakovic and Petr Sikora had a promising opening weekend for the Hershey Bears, another Washington Capitals prospect was kept on the sidelines. Terik Parascak was a healthy scratch in both of Hershey’s games against the…

By Ian Oland · RMNB

Published: Monday, 5 October 2026 at 2:47 AM

Key Things to Know

Capitals first-round pick Terik Parascak was healthy-scratched for Hershey's first two regular-season games.
Hershey Bears head coach Derek King stated that Parascak needs to get in the gym and build strength.
King stressed that the Bears are taking a patient, long-term developmental approach rather than rushing Parascak.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Washington Capitals prospect Terik Parascak was a healthy scratch for both of the Hershey Bears' opening-weekend games against the Charlotte Checkers. Bears head coach Derek King explained that the decision came down to roster numbers and Parascak's physical development, noting the 20-year-old winger needs time in the gym to gain strength before entering the lineup.

Parascak was selected 17th overall by the Capitals in the 2024 NHL Draft following a standout career with the WHL's Prince George Cougars. King emphasized that Hershey is taking a patient development approach, comparing it to previous prospects, and stated Parascak will play once he adjusts to the professional pace.

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