Levessen Keys to Washington Capitals
ESPN’s Ryan S Clark and Kristen Shelton: Consider some of the unofficial decisions and priorities for the Washington Capitals in this offseason.
Projected space 2023-24: $7,369,166
2023 draft picks: 1st, 2nd, 4th, 5th, and 7th
They began to make some moves in the deadlines to help mark their blue streak when they acquired Rasmus Sandin from the Maple Leafs. They still have an option in the first and second rounds and General Manager Brian McClellan can look at other trade options.
NHL RUMORS: Pittsburgh Penguins – Tristan Jarry, Brian Dumoulin, Jason Zucker, and Jeff Carter
Center Evgeny Kuznetsov wouldn’t mind a trade, but that would leave a huge hole in the middle. The Capitals still plan to be competitive as long as Alex Ovechkin chases Wayne Gretzky’s 894 career goals. Center Niklas Backstrom is 35 and has injury concerns. TJ Oshie is in a similar boat. Will they be looking to get a few youngsters up front or keep most of their veteran core?
On the Capitals Connor Brown, Tom Wilson, Martin Fairfare, Alex Alexiev, and Connor Cherry
Sammy Silber from The Hockey NewsWashington Capitals forward Connor Brown played just four games before tearing up his ACL and ending his season. It’s UFA suspended and hasn’t spoken to The Capitals about a potential extension. Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan said he would talk to Browns clients to see if there was a seizure. They brought in Brown last season because they thought he would be very fit and able to help out in several areas.
Forward Tom Wilson has one year left on his contract and has already announced he wants to stay and won’t “play hard” on his next contract. The Capitals seem interested in keeping him with the organization for the long term.
Defenders Martin Vervary and Alex Alexeyev are awaiting applications for funding and both have said they are not considering their next contracts yet.
NHL rumours: Anaheim Ducks, Ottawa Senators, and Toronto Maple Leafs
It doesn’t look like Connor Cherry will re-sign with the Capitals.
GM MacLellan will be looking to revamp the top six. They will be looking to bring in some youth and maybe some defensive depth. McClellan will consider both the free agent and the commercial market.