Breaking down Sonny Milano's lost season

After he signed a 3-year extension with the Caps in 2023, Sonny Milano was hoping to push forward and prove his worth to the team, and hold on to his roster spot, amid growing internal competition.

In his first year with the Capitals (2022-23), Milano recorded 11 goals and 22 assists in 64 games. The following year, he scored 15 goals and 8 assists in 49 games; and in 2024-25, 0 points in 3 games.

In training camp last fall, Milano's performance was sub-par, as was his play in the ensuing exhibition games. Yet, head coach Carbery gave him the benefit of the doubt, despite calling Sonny's showing, 'just okay', and started the winger on the third-line when the season began.

Right away, Milano struggled, and was benched after being on the ice for three goals in 5:52 of ice-time in the season opener. When he returned to lineup on November 3, he only played 5:46 minutes.

Three days later, Sonny Milano got the tap again, against Nashville, and after just 10 minutes of ice-time and 0 points, was sidelined with an upper-body injury.

Following months on the LTIR, Milano's status was finally upgraded to 'full-contact practices', but had a significant set-back.

Though the team has options, the Washington Capitals have acknowledged the need to bolster the third-line this summer, and bring in another winger.

Also, if Anthony Beavillier re-signs with the team, it will further increase competition for Sonny Milano moving forward, in particular if Ryan Leonard continues to develop, and with prospects ready to take the jump to the NHL, Sonny's chances appear to be diminishing.

With one-year left on his contract, Caps may have to make a decision on Sonny Milano's future, sooner rather than later.