The Washington Capitals are turning attention to the trade market after failing to secure forward Nikolaj Ehlers in free agency. The move comes as the team seeks to strengthen its top-six forward group to support captain Alex Ovechkin as he nears the later stages of his career.
Washington was a serious contender for Ehlers, who ultimately agreed to a six-year contract with the Carolina Hurricanes. Capitals general manager Chris Patrick stressed that the decision was not a matter of money but rather the player’s preference for the best fit on and off the ice.
“It was a player picking what he thought was the best situation on and off the ice,”
—Chris Patrick, Capitals General Manager
With the postseason now behind them, the Capitals face the challenge of improving their offensive output. Washington managed only seven goals during their second-round playoff elimination by the Hurricanes, highlighting their need for additional firepower alongside Ovechkin.
“Carolina Hurricanes master class against the Capitals in round 2. They only allowed 7 goals against in 5 games to the 2nd highest scoring team in the league this season. Legs feed the wolf. Bravo Caniacs. #raiseup”
—Paul Bissonnette, Analyst
NHL insider Jeff Marek has identified the Capitals as a team likely to be active in summer trades. Speaking on the Sekeres and Price show, Marek emphasized Washington’s proximity in the Ehlers signing race and suggested they may explore deals to strengthen their roster.
“I think there will be trades [this summer]; the team that I wonder about is the team that went right down to the wire with Nikolaj Ehlers, and that’s the Capitals; I wouldn’t be surprised if they go the trade route here.”
—Jeff Marek, NHL Insider
These developments underscore that the Capitals’ offseason moves are not finished. Although they still have roughly $4.125 million in salary cap space, Washington remains cautious after investing draft picks in recent transactions. General manager Patrick confirmed the team attempted a major signing, which did not materialize, reinforcing the likelihood of further roster adjustments.
Current Moves and Roster Strategy Amid Post-Free Agency Trade Plans
Despite missing out on Ehlers, the Capitals have made several acquisitions in free agency and trades, including re-signing Anthony Beauvillier to a two-year contract and adding forward Justin Sourdif and defenseman Declan Chisholm. Nevertheless, these additions have not fully resolved the team’s need for a reliable scoring presence in the upper forward lines.
Washington has also seen departures, such as Lars Eller and Andrew Mangiapane, creating openings but also further pressure to balance veteran leadership and youth development.
“If we’re bringing in a guy just to bring in a guy, he’s going to end up blocking one of our younger players,”
—Chris Patrick, Capitals General Manager
This younger group includes prospects Andrew Cristall, Ivan Miroshnichenko, Hendrix Lapierre, and recent first-round pick Ryan Leonard, all positioned to compete for playing time. The Capitals face the challenge of integrating these emerging talents while pursuing playoff success, especially with Ovechkin still motivated to capture another Stanley Cup.
Considering the mix of cap space, prospects, and trade interest from other teams seeking to manage salaries, the Capitals are poised for active participation in the trade market. Washington’s urgency to boost scoring depth reflects the critical phase of balancing immediate contention and long-term team growth.
As the offseason progresses, the Capitals are expected to remain engaged in trade discussions to enhance their roster before the upcoming season.