Washington Capitals Looking At Plenty Of Possible Additions

The Washington Capitals are a little behind in the playoff race, but have dealt with injuries this season. After all of that, they are four points back of a playoff spot with two extra games played. It won't be an easy hill to climb, but it's easier than some that still believe they're in the race.

The Capitals aren't going to roll over this season, in Alex Ovechkin's potential last in the NHL, and after a great retool in the 2024 offseason, great prospects, and a solid team, they are capable of continuing to be competitive for many years to come.

Frank Seravalli said, "Whatever available talent that they could add in their top-6, it's about this year and the future. They're in on a bunch of different things. They'd like to make a splash."

The top-9 of the Capitals looks pretty solid except for Ethen Frank on the top line. He appears to be a replacement for Connor McMichael, who is currently injured, but when he comes back, someone like Anthony Beauvillier could be bumped down if the Capitals make the splash they're hoping to. They were reportedly in on Artemi Panarin, which makes sense as they have plenty to offer, but that didn't happen.

They are good down the middle in the top-6 with Dylan Strome and Pierre-Luc Dubois, if they are healthy, and Justin Sourdif as a guy who can step up if something does happen. So the likeliest place the Capitals will be looking to add is the wing, and a move for a winger is a little easier than finding or outbidding other teams than a centerman this season.

We can imagine that if the Capitals are willing to go after Panarin and give him a large extension, many or most of the other top players on the trade market are potential targets as well. Washington has cap space and will have even more by the deadline and for playoffs. Even if they don't come out hot from the Olympic break, they could still make at least one larger move.