NHL Rumors: Capitals Focusing On Specific Addition In Trade Market
Capitals Eye Trade Market After Quiet Free Agency
General manager Chris Patrick confirmed that the team “tried to do something big” in free agency but came up empty, despite reportedly making a strong push for Ehlers and evaluating options like Jack Roslovic. With nearly $4.1 million in cap space and a roster that needs more scoring depth, Washington is keeping its options open.
#Caps GM Chris Patrick on free agency: “Some big names came off the board that would have been interesting for our group that we were evaluating, (but) they stayed with their current teams. We looked to try and do something big and it didn’t go our way. But I’m excited—we did a…
— Tarik El-Bashir (@Tarik_ElBashir) July 5, 2025
Top-six forward remains a priority
Even after re-signing Anthony Beauvillier and acquiring Justin Sourdif and Declan Chisholm, the Capitals still haven’t filled their biggest offseason need: a consistent scoring threat for their top two lines. They managed only seven goals in their second-round playoff loss to Carolina and know they need more offensive punch to remain competitive in the East.
Patrick made it clear they’ll remain “prudent” given recent trades have depleted their draft capital, but he also acknowledged that “some interesting names” may become available in what could be an active trade market across the NHL.
2025 Washington Capitals##ALLCAPS scoring by committee pic.twitter.com/x9yAAaK7hf
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Youth movement provides insurance, but not certainty
While Patrick remains open to in-season trades, the organization is also giving opportunities to its next wave of prospects. Forwards Andrew Cristall, Ivan Miroshnichenko, Hendrix Lapierre, and Ethen Frank will compete for NHL jobs in training camp.
Add in recent draft picks like Ryan Leonard, Eriks Mateiko, and Patrick Thomas, and Washington’s future looks bright. Still, the present needs help, especially with Alex Ovechkin entering what could be his final seasons.
Whether the Caps strike a deal before opening night or wait until the deadline, adding scoring help remains high on the priority list.
Photo Credit: Geoff Burke-Imagn Images
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