The NHL offseason has cooled, but insiders believe a second wave of trades and signings is coming—and the Washington Capitals could be central to it. Linked to forward Jack Roslovic, who remains unsigned after a 39-point season in Carolina, the Caps still have over $4 million in cap space and are seeking a skilled forward to round out their top nine. With only 10 of their 12 playoff forwards returning, GM Chris Patrick could still make a meaningful move before camp opens. Meanwhile, Washington’s...
Jul 22, 2025•33 min•Ep. 1179
The Washington Capitals remain focused on adding offensive firepower after missing out on Nikolaj Ehlers in free agency. Two potential trade options have emerged: Columbus winger Yegor Chinakhov, who has officially requested a trade after clashing with his coach, and St. Louis Blues forward Jordan Kyrou, a proven 70-point scorer reportedly available due to the Blues' depth and financial considerations. Chinakhov’s affordable cap hit and prior connections to the Capitals’ coaching staff make him ...
Jul 21, 2025•28 min•Ep. 1178
The Washington Capitals’ 2025-26 schedule is out, and it could shape the future of the franchise. It’s a schedule that will test depth, conditioning, and mental toughness. All eyes will also be on the front office as trade rumors swirl. And where does Hendrix Lapierre fit in? After re-signing on a one-year bridge deal, this is a make-or-break year for the young center, who could either lock in a top-nine role—or find himself in trade talks. The Capitals' season isn't just about the schedule; it'...
Jul 18, 2025•31 min•Ep. 1177
Ryan Leonard’s quick jump from college to the NHL gave the Capitals a glimpse of his high potential, even if his short stint didn’t show up on the stat sheet. After a stellar season at Boston College and leading Team USA to a gold medal at the World Juniors, Leonard’s brief playoff experience with Washington sets him up well for his first full NHL campaign, where he’s expected to help fill the team’s secondary scoring needs. Meanwhile, Tom Wilson enjoyed a resurgent season with career highs acro...
Jul 17, 2025•30 min•Ep. 1176
The Washington Capitals made targeted offseason moves to bolster their depth on defense and forward. Defenseman Declan Chisholm arrives from Minnesota as a reliable, NHL-ready option who can step in immediately and challenge for ice time, adding mobility and solid puck-moving to the blue line. Meanwhile, the Capitals traded for forward Justin Sourdif from Florida, banking on his high motor, playoff pedigree, and 200-foot game to solidify their bottom-six forward group. Both players fit the team’...
Jul 16, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1175
Alex Ovechkin may be publicly shutting down retirement rumors, but signs are mounting that this upcoming season could be his final NHL campaign. Between a team email mistakenly labeling next season as his last, comments from his wife about returning to Russia, and Ovechkin’s own vague “anything can happen” remarks, there’s reason to believe the 39-year-old could walk away after completing his current contract — especially after surpassing Wayne Gretzky for the all-time goals record. Meanwhile, f...
Jul 15, 2025•32 min•Ep. 1174
Tom Wilson and Ryan Reaves, once fierce on-ice rivals known for their physical clashes and public disdain for each other, have surprisingly become friendly off the ice. Reaves recently praised Wilson on a podcast, confirming they’ve hung out socially and put their past behind them. Both players recognize each other’s value as rare “unicorns” in today’s NHL—big, skilled, physical presences who contribute on the scoresheet as much as in the hits column. Their newfound friendship shows how hockey’s...
Jul 14, 2025•28 min•Ep. 1173
The Capitals’ goaltending situation has undergone a dramatic transformation since the 2022 offseason when Ilya Samsonov and Vitek Vanecek were both on the roster but neither proved reliable enough to carry the load. After parting ways with both, Washington took a bold step in 2024 by acquiring Logan Thompson and extending Charlie Lindgren. The current tandem offers more structure, with Thompson earning a long-term deal after a red-hot midseason stretch that saw him dominate the league. However, ...
Jul 11, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1172
Lynden Lakovic made an early impression at Capitals development camp — both with his surprising 6'5" stature and mature presence on and off the ice. Drafted 27th overall, Lakovic slipped slightly in the draft due to a down year with Moose Jaw, where he nonetheless earned captaincy and showed strong leadership. His physical tools, skating, and scoring touch were standouts during camp, leading to an entry-level contract and high hopes for his return to junior this fall as he focuses on building st...
Jul 10, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1171
Alex Ovechkin is already back in the gym preparing for the 2025-26 NHL season after a historic campaign where he scored 44 goals in just 66 games, surpassing Wayne Gretzky as the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer. Entering the final year of his contract at age 40, Ovi remains a dominant force, leading the league in even-strength goals per 60 and tying Gordie Howe’s age-39 goal record. Though his future beyond this season is uncertain, he’s focused on performing at a high level again for the Cap...
Jul 09, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1170
Connor McMichael is set to compete for the Washington Capitals' third-line center role after a career-best season playing second-line wing alongside Pierre-Luc Dubois. With Hendrix Lapierre and Henrik Rybinski also in the mix, the battle for center depth will heat up in training camp. Meanwhile, the team reportedly explored adding Jack Roslovic in free agency but may now lean on younger internal options. Top defensive prospect Cole Hutson stood out at development camp but will return to Boston U...
Jul 08, 2025•30 min•Ep. 1169
The Washington Capitals have re-signed Hendrix Lapierre to a one-year, $850,000 bridge deal — a clear signal that this is a “prove-it” season for the 23-year-old center. After starting 2024-25 on the NHL roster but struggling with only eight assists in 27 games, Lapierre rebounded in Hershey with 32 points in 32 games. GM Chris Patrick emphasized it’s up to Lapierre to earn a full-time spot, with training camp competition heating up. Meanwhile, Connor McMichael is expected to start at center aft...
Jul 07, 2025•29 min•Ep. 1168
The Washington Capitals’ free agency plans took a turn when top target Nikolaj Ehlers chose Carolina, prompting the team to re-sign winger Anthony Beauvillier to a two-year, $5.5 million deal. Beauvillier proved versatile after arriving at the trade deadline, moving up and down the lineup and producing six points in 10 playoff games. Coach Spencer Carbery praised his fearless style, skating pace, and ability to impact all zones of the ice. The Capitals see him as a cost-effective fit who already...
Jul 04, 2025•26 min•Ep. 1167
Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings, David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) and Seth Toupal (Locked On Wild are here to talk about the big moves of free agency so far, including the Mitch Marner saga finally coming to an end, what the heck the LA Kings are doing, and where Nikolaj Ehlers is going to end up! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app...
Jul 03, 2025•32 min•Ep. 1166
Andrew Cristall is making a serious push for the Washington Capitals roster after dominating in the WHL last season. Back at development camp for the third time, he’s now taking on a leadership role — even sitting in Alex Ovechkin’s locker stall. Cristall has bulked up, sharpened his defensive game, and is treating training camp like a clean slate with NHL expectations in sight. Meanwhile, the Capitals made several key organizational moves, signing Louie Belpedio, Calle Rosen, and Graeme Clarke ...
Jul 03, 2025•29 min•Ep. 1165
The Washington Capitals made a major commitment to their blue line by re-signing 25-year-old defenseman Martin Fehérváry to a seven-year, $42 million extension. The shutdown rearguard, who led Washington in shorthanded ice time last season and posted a career-high 25 points, is viewed as a cornerstone of the team’s future. GM Chris Patrick praised Fehérváry’s work ethic, skating, and team-first mentality, highlighting his importance as the franchise transitions to a younger core. Despite undergo...
Jul 01, 2025•25 min•Ep. 1164
After last summer’s aggressive roster overhaul led to a 20-point improvement and the Capitals’ first playoff series win since 2018, Washington is taking a more measured but strategic approach in 2025. With just under $9 million in cap space remaining after signing Justin Sourdif and Declan Chisholm, the Caps are targeting a skilled forward while maintaining flexibility thanks to Connor McMichael’s positional versatility. Whether they acquire a top-six piece via free agency or trade depends on th...
Jul 01, 2025•31 min•Ep. 1163
In the aftermath of the 2025 NHL Draft, the Washington Capitals wasted no time shaping their roster for next season. They acquired 23-year-old forward Justin Sourdif from Florida, a player they had long targeted, giving up a second- and sixth-round pick. Sourdif, who tallied 34 points in 43 AHL games and added 10 more in the playoffs, is expected to play full-time in the NHL next season. The move signals a strong belief in his potential as a middle-six forward with grit and offensive upside. The...
Jun 30, 2025•26 min•Ep. 1162
The Washington Capitals made waves at the NHL Draft by selecting 6'4" winger Lynden Lakovic from Moose Jaw with the 27th overall pick. Known for his elite shot and strong character, Lakovic was a captain in junior and models his game after Tage Thompson. The Caps love his size, skill, and maturity, signaling he could become a top-six winger down the line. Behind the scenes, GM Chris Patrick and Ross Mahoney stayed laser-focused, passing on theatrics and sticking to their plan. Beyond Lakovic, th...
Jun 29, 2025•25 min•Ep. 1161
The Washington Capitals made their first offseason splash ahead of the 2025 NHL Draft by acquiring 23-year-old forward Justin Sourdif from the Florida Panthers in exchange for a 2026 second-round pick and a 2027 sixth-rounder. Sourdif, a restricted free agent, has limited NHL experience but posted strong numbers in the AHL with Charlotte, including 34 points in 43 games last season and 10 points in the playoffs. With Florida’s roster depth and pending free agents like Sam Bennett and Brad Marcha...
Jun 27, 2025•14 min•Ep. 1160
The NHL and NHLPA are finalizing a new CBA framework that could be announced by the 2025 Draft. Major changes include an 84-game schedule beginning in 2026–27, shorter four-game preseasons, reduced contract term limits (7 years max for re-signings, 6 for free agents), elimination of deferred salary deals, and a new postseason salary cap rule to prevent LTIR abuse. Teams will also now carry full-time emergency backup goalies, ending the era of local stand-ins. Meanwhile, former Capitals forward E...
Jun 27, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1159
Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings, David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) and Armando Velez (Locked On Panthers) are here to talk about the upcoming NHL draft, any potential free agency surprises, and about Alexander Mogilny finally making it into the Hall of Fame! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rugiet Head to Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONNHL and use code LOCKEDONNHL to get 15% off today. Gametime Today's episode is brought t...
Jun 26, 2025•32 min•Ep. 1158
Chris Patrick’s first year as Capitals general manager was defined by an ambitious and highly successful offseason. BMAC brought in Pierre-Luc Dubois, who emerged as a top-line force and career-year producer, upgraded the defense with Jakob Chychrun and Matt Roy, and landed a Vezina-caliber goalie in Logan Thompson—all without giving up core assets. It was a dramatic and efficient reload that repositioned the Capitals as a competitive team without entering a full rebuild. However, the in-season ...
Jun 26, 2025•30 min•Ep. 1157
The Washington Capitals are heading into the 2025 NHL Draft with a flexible mindset. Assistant GM Ross Mahoney reaffirmed the team’s philosophy of selecting the best player available, citing strong character and maturity among this year’s draft class. Still, Mahoney acknowledged the possibility of trading the 27th overall pick if it means acquiring an immediate asset to push the Caps closer to contention. Beyond the draft, the Capitals face key RFA decisions on Hendrix Lapierre and Alexander Ale...
Jun 25, 2025•30 min•Ep. 1156
The Washington Capitals head into the 2025 NHL Draft with the 27th overall pick and several strategic options on the table. After being eliminated in the second round by the Hurricanes, the team could either use their pick to address organizational needs or package it in a trade for NHL-ready help. A puck-moving, right-shot defenseman is a prime target, with London Knights’ Henry Brzustewicz fitting that mold. If they go this route, he’d offer future blue-line support alongside prospects like Co...
Jun 24, 2025•25 min•Ep. 1155
Despite finishing first in the Eastern Conference with 50 wins in the 2024–25 season, the Washington Capitals are getting little respect from sportsbooks heading into the 2026 Stanley Cup race. Both BetMGM and FanDuel list the Caps with +2800 odds—12th-best overall—and behind teams they outperformed last season, like the Maple Leafs, Lightning, and Devils. BetMGM favors Edmonton (+650) while FanDuel gives the edge to Carolina (+700). The Capitals are also pegged as only the third-most likely to ...
Jun 23, 2025•31 min•Ep. 1154
The Florida Panthers’ back-to-back Stanley Cup championships highlighted the blueprint for playoff success: depth, consistency, and bold in-season moves. The Washington Capitals, despite finishing atop the East in the regular season, fell short in the second round. Watching Florida dominate underscores what the Caps must improve—third-line stability, blue-line depth, and perhaps a more aggressive trade deadline approach. Consistency in identity and execution, as exemplified by Florida, could be ...
Jun 20, 2025•28 min•Ep. 1152
Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Seth Toupal (Locked On Wild), David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) and Zach Martin (Locked On Hurricanes) are here to talk about why the playoffs are lasting so long, how to fix that, whether the NHL will finally close the LTIR loophole some teams have been using, and what to make of the early Olympics roster announcements! Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch...
Jun 19, 2025•34 min•Ep. 1153
The Washington Capitals are aiming to retool their roster this offseason by balancing a youth movement with immediate competitive needs. One cost-effective free agent target is Jack Roslovic, a versatile forward who posted 22 goals and 39 points last season for Carolina. He could serve as a third-line center or winger depending on how Connor McMichael is deployed. With under $10 million in cap space, Roslovic offers an affordable short-term solution as the Capitals wait for prospects like Ryan L...
Jun 19, 2025•26 min•Ep. 1151
The Washington Capitals have emerged as a model franchise after finishing first in the Eastern Conference for the 2024–25 season. Rather than rebuilding following a disappointing 2022–23 campaign, the team retooled with NHL-ready talent and now finds themselves ahead of rivals like the Pittsburgh Penguins, who are entering a major transitional phase. With a new coach, Dan Muse, and key veterans potentially on the move, the Penguins are poised to embrace a full rebuild. Pittsburgh is reportedly s...
Jun 18, 2025•27 min•Ep. 1150
