Capitals make major lineup changes ahead of tonights game

Head coach Spencer Carbery confirmed pregame that Frank will play, replacing Sonny Milano. The 26-year-old winger has been lighting it up again in Hershey, and now he gets a chance to bring that speed and shot to the NHL stage.

At the same time, Carbery is sticking with Justin Sourdif at center after his strong finish Sunday. That shift bumps Hendrix Lapierre to the wing-something the coach didn't outright confirm but heavily hinted at during media availability. The combination worked well in the third period last game, and Carbery clearly liked what he saw.

Few players in the organization have produced more consistently in the AHL over the past two years than Ethan Frank. His pace and quick release make him a natural fit for a depth scoring role, especially with Milano out.

The new alignment might give the Capitals some much-needed spark. Sourdif's structure at center allows Lapierre to play freer offensively, and Frank adds another shooter who doesn't hesitate.

Fans have been clamoring to see Frank get another NHL shot. His preseason was strong, but roster crunches pushed him back to Hershey. Now he gets a real opportunity to prove his game translates. If he finds chemistry quickly, it could be tough to take him out again.

Here's the tweet that broke the lineup news:

Sourdif's continued trust at center is also telling. Spencer Carbery's comments this week made clear he values how Sourdif manages the middle-steady on draws, calm under pressure, and quick to support the breakout. Those are small details, but they're the kind that earn extra minutes.

Lapierre, meanwhile, has looked more natural on the wing lately. Without the defensive weight of the center position, he's been freer to attack seams and use his vision. Carbery may not have said it directly, but the alignment feels like a test that could stick if results follow.

With Dubois still out, these are the moments that shape the roster's identity. AHL graduates like Sourdif and Frank have a chance to show they belong full-time. For Lapierre, it's a chance to adjust and stay in the lineup.

If the line clicks tonight, the Capitals might have stumbled onto the right mix by accident-one that blends energy, structure, and a little redemption.