What do the Washington Capitals need to make a real run?
The Washington Capitals season is officially done following a crushing second-round playoff defeat to the Carolina Hurricanes. With the NHL offseason looming, it's clear general manager Chris Patrick must make strategic adjustments to the roster if the Capitals wish to make a real push for the Stanley Cup.
The Washington Capitals found themselves heavily outmatched against the Carolina Hurricanes.
What do the Capitals need for a deep playoff run?
The matchup against the Carolina Hurricanes was a tough one from the start, and as the series went on, two things became clear: the Capitals need a strong third-line center (right hand shot) and a major upgrade on defence through a big trade.
According to Sammi Silber of DC Backcheck, First, it's no secret that the third line needs stability and consistency. Washington was aggressive in getting Lars Eller earlier this season, but his role was different from the first time he was in the District, and as a result, he couldn't really find that spark he used to play with. That trio struggled to finish, and rookie Ryan Leonard couldn't carry it, either.
Then, defensively, this team needs to start preparing for what the future will look like without John Carlson. Beyond Carlson, there's Matt Roy and Trevor van Riemsdyk, and next on the depth chart is Ethan Bear, an unrestricted free agent who will likely get a deal elsewhere, and Vincent Iorio.
Of course, Martin Fehervary's injury was a massive blow to the team, and defenceman Alex Alexeyev struggled to carry the load in his absence.
John Carlson's play has been trending in the wrong direction, and if the Capitals wish to replicate their 2018 Stanley Cup run, Chris Patrick will need to make a "big swing" this offseason to get his team over the hump.
More details to follow.
| POLL | ||
JUIN 9 | 37 ANSWERS What do the Washington Capitals need to make a real run? Do you think the Washington Capitals will win the Stanley Cup next season? | ||
| Yes | 19 | 51.4 % |
| No | 18 | 48.6 % |
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