In today's episode of Locked On Capitals, we dive into whether veteran forwards Chris Kreider or Jonathan Marchessault could be smart trade targets for Washington this offseason. Kreider, still under contract for two more years at $6.5 million AAV, brings grit, speed, and a net-front presence — the kind of physical winger who could thrive alongside Dylan Strome or Pierre-Luc Dubois. But with a 15-team no-trade list and recent injury issues, GM Brian MacLellan would need to weigh Kreider’s short-term impact against his cap hit and declining production. A deal would likely require the Rangers to retain salary and could cost the Caps a second-round pick plus a mid-tier prospect.

In segment two, we break down Jonathan Marchessault’s fit in D.C. The 34-year-old former Conn Smythe winner put up 56 points last season and still has four years left at a manageable $5.5 million cap hit. His offensive instincts and playoff experience could bolster Washington’s second line, but that contract term could be a sticking point. Would Nashville retain salary or take a depth piece in return? The debate is on. And in Segment 3, it’s our Caps Fan Friday where Aaron Freas joins me on the show.

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On today’s edition of Locked on Capitals, Dan is joined by Hockey Troll from the Caps Chirp Podcast to break down some major storylines for the Washington Capitals.

First, they discuss the incredible impact Nicklas Bäckström has had on Alex Ovechkin’s career. While Ovechkin is known for his goal-scoring, Bäckström’s playmaking and vision were a huge part of that success. The chemistry between the two has been foundational for the franchise for over a decade.

In the second segment, the conversation shifts to head coach Spencer Carbery. While Carbery brought energy and a new voice behind the bench, the Capitals still struggled in the postseason. Dan and Hockey Troll weigh whether system changes are needed to help the team take the next step or if it’s more about player execution.

Finally, they look ahead to the future of the franchise. With Ovechkin and John Carlson potentially entering their final season in D.C., the question becomes: who are the next faces of the Capitals? They explore some of the young talent in the pipeline and who might step up as the team’s future leaders.

That’s all coming up on this episode of Locked on Capitals — your team, every day.

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Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings) and David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) are here to talk about the Stanley Cup Final beginning and where Mitch Marner is going to go in free agency, as well as some other key free agents!

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In today’s episode of Locked On Capitals, we break down three big offseason storylines surrounding the Washington Capitals. First, we examine whether Minnesota Wild center Marco Rossi—who’s reportedly on the trade block after rejecting a long-term extension—fits into Washington’s plans. While Rossi’s age, two-way skill, and offensive upside match what the Capitals are seeking, his addition would crowd an already deep center group and potentially block young talent like Connor McMichael and Hendrix Lapierre.

Next, we explore whether the Capitals could make a bold move with an offer sheet for Sabres winger J.J. Peterka, who scored 68 points this season. While Peterka is a dynamic young forward who fits the team’s need for top-six scoring, the cost and risk associated with offer sheets—either a massive cap hit or high draft pick compensation—make it an unlikely route. Finally, we revisit the infamous Filip Forsberg trade, which sent the future All-Star to Nashville for Martin Erat in 2013. Though Washington eventually won the Stanley Cup, the lopsided deal still serves as a cautionary tale in sacrificing future stars for short-term gain.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

As the Washington Capitals prepare for the 2025–26 NHL season, they return with a remarkably stable roster — all 20 NHL spots are already under contract heading into training camp. While this continuity speaks to management’s confidence, it also leaves limited room for surprises. The forward lines are mostly set, with Alex Ovechkin chasing historic milestones and Pierre-Luc Dubois poised for a full second season in D.C. after a strong debut. The key questions surround a few open winger slots, where returning veterans or young talent like Hendrix Lapierre could make their mark during camp. On defense, the Caps are locked in with seven NHL-caliber defensemen, including a newly extended Jakob Chychrun and a motivated John Carlson in the final year of his deal. Goaltending is finally stable as Logan Thompson and Charlie Lindgren form a strong tandem, while prospect Garin Bjorklund continues to develop in the system. With few roster questions and a deep, experienced core, the Capitals are betting big on internal growth and chemistry heading into a pivotal season for the franchise.

(CORRECTION: Logan Thompson through 30-31)

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In Part One of this special two-part crossover episode of Locked On Capitals, I’m joined by Hockey Troll from The Official Caps Chirp Podcast to relive one of the most historic moments in NHL history — Alexander Ovechkin breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record, finishing the season with 897. We reflect on what this milestone means for the franchise, Ovi’s legacy in Washington and the league, and whether we think he’ll call it a career this offseason.

We also take a close look at the Capitals’ 2024–25 regular season and what it revealed about the team’s identity moving forward. Did they overachieve or fall short? We dig into the rise of Dylan Strome as a dependable first-line center, Pierre-Luc Dubois’ bounce-back year, and the impact of rookie Ryan Leonard. With Part Two coming soon, we’ll cover the defense, goaltending, offseason decisions, and bold predictions — but for now, we’re setting the stage with history, heart, and a whole lot of Capitals pride.

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Alex Ovechkin's wife, Nastya, may have just confirmed what Capitals fans have speculated for years—Ovechkin could be playing his final NHL season in 2025-26 before returning to Russia. In an exclusive interview, she revealed the family plans to move back to Moscow following the last year of Ovi’s contract, aligning with his long-rumored desire to finish his career with Dynamo Moscow. While the Capitals' front office has denied any official decision, this revelation adds fuel to the idea that next season could become an emotional farewell tour for one of the game’s all-time greats.

Meanwhile, the future is taking shape with standout prospect Ivan Miroshnichenko making major strides in Hershey and during his NHL stints. The Capitals are also focused on locking up key restricted free agents Connor McMichael and Martin Fehérváry, both of whom had breakout seasons and are eligible for extensions on July 1. With a rising salary cap and the risk of offer sheets looming, General Manager Chris Patrick is looking to be proactive in solidifying the team’s young core as the franchise braces for its post-Ovechkin era.

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Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings) and Zach Martin (Locked On Hurricanes) are here to talk about what really matters in the playoffs: goaltending. Also, we discuss how to improve the regular season AND the playoff format, before swinging back to the playoffs to talk about the importance of physical players like Sam Bennett in the postseason!

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