Capitals' John Carlson's future uncertain beyond upcoming season
Photo credit: AP News
As the Washington Capitals head into the off-season, several pressing decisions remain to be made by front office regarding expiring contracts and contract extensions.
Though the entire defense corps from this season remains under contract, some pressing issues still need to be addressed, in particular how best to approach John Carlson's contract.
The number one D-man is entering into the final year of the 8 year contract he signed back in 2018, and is eligible for an extension when free agency begins July 1st.
Chris Patrick Speaks out on John Carlson
"Carlson is obviously a huge part of our team and had a great season," GM Patrick said. "And all expectations are he's going to have another great season next year. It probably makes sense just to see how things play out a little bit. We're a mature team and are transitioning into a younger team."
John Carlson's age may at some point become a factor, but that time is not now. The 35 year old led all Capitals' defensemen this year with 51 points (5g, 46a) in 79 games, and was 22nd in the entire NHL with Time On Ice per game, at 23:34.
Yet, it seems the number one D-man Carlson was equally non-committal as GM Patrick, when asked about his future with the Capitals.
"I have to drop the kids off at school on Monday," Carlson said Saturday when asked at Breakdown Day about his future with the squad."
With respect to the team's goal to becoming younger, several options are available to them. They hade D-men that were draft picks available to them from the AHL's Hershey Bears.
Leon Muggli, Ryan Chesley, David Gucciardi, Vincent Iorio will more than likely get a good look at training camp. Highly touted Cole Hutson is also eager to take the next step, and is ready to turn pro next season.
In addition, prospect Cam Allen of the OHL Champions London Knights will be in the mix of young talent to consider.
"Going forward, I think it would be best if we could get Alexeyev more games, and we'll see where it goes from there," Patrick said.
As you see, there are many option available to Patrick and MacLellan, to make the team younger. It only remains to see who among the group will be wearing a Washington Capitals jersey next season.
| POLL | ||
MAI 21 | 86 ANSWERS Capitals' John Carlson's future uncertain beyond upcoming season Should the Capitals extend John Carlson beyond the 2025-2026 season? | ||
| Yes | 28 | 32.6 % |
| No | 58 | 67.4 % |
| List of polls | ||
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