Despite the presence of Alexander Ovechkin in their ranks, the Washington Capitals struggled offensively last season and are looking to make more changes to reshape their front two lines.
The team missed the playoffs for the first time since spring 2014, and the summer already heralded some upheaval. Additionally, Spencer Carbery will replace Peter Laviolette on the bench, while among the players, the arrival of Max Pacioretty could prove a winning bet if the former Montreal Canadiens stay healthy.
However, observers expected more action in the US capital, especially as the names of Evgeny Kuznetsov and Anthony Mantha circulated in deal rumours. Both men are still part of the organization, but general manager Brian MacLellan keeps his phone wide open to give his top-six forward group some teeth.
“We had discussions during the accession draft; Everything might or might not lead to something concrete. We’ll see where it goes,” the DG told The Athletic.
The leader was thus able to compromise, admitting in June that Mantha was available. Then Kuznetsov would have called for a transfer and the scenario remains plausible. However, MacLellan has to reduce his payroll: According to the specialist website CapFriendly, he exceeds the current limit by $700,000.
The “Caps” ranked 20th in the National League with 255 goals scored in the 2022–23 season and finished 13th in the Eastern Conference with 80 points.