The Capitals’ goaltending situation has undergone a dramatic transformation since the 2022 offseason when Ilya Samsonov and Vitek Vanecek were both on the roster but neither proved reliable enough to carry the load. After parting ways with both, Washington took a bold step in 2024 by acquiring Logan Thompson and extending Charlie Lindgren. The current tandem offers more structure, with Thompson earning a long-term deal after a red-hot midseason stretch that saw him dominate the league. However, his late-season dip and mixed playoff performance leave questions about his consistency.

Charlie Lindgren, meanwhile, remains a steady locker room presence and capable backup who has posted back-to-back 20-win seasons. Despite a concerning drop in save percentage and one of the league's lowest quality start rates among regular goalies, the Capitals extended him through 2028. With over $9 million committed to the position, the Thompson-Lindgren duo is locked in — but is it the answer for a team trying to extend its Stanley Cup window?

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Lynden Lakovic made an early impression at Capitals development camp — both with his surprising 6'5" stature and mature presence on and off the ice. Drafted 27th overall, Lakovic slipped slightly in the draft due to a down year with Moose Jaw, where he nonetheless earned captaincy and showed strong leadership. His physical tools, skating, and scoring touch were standouts during camp, leading to an entry-level contract and high hopes for his return to junior this fall as he focuses on building strength and rounding out his two-way game.

Meanwhile, Andrew Cristall, a 2023 second-rounder, continues to turn heads. He posted a league-leading 132 points in the WHL last season and is now a strong candidate for NHL duty or a top-line role in Hershey. Known for elite puck skills and growing skating ability, Cristall's development and leadership were evident during his third dev camp. Alongside prospects like Miroshnichenko, Cole Hutson, and Ilya Protas, Washington's recent drafts show a clear identity — targeting skilled, physically mature players who thrive in heavy, playoff-style hockey.

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Alex Ovechkin is already back in the gym preparing for the 2025-26 NHL season after a historic campaign where he scored 44 goals in just 66 games, surpassing Wayne Gretzky as the NHL’s all-time leading goal scorer. Entering the final year of his contract at age 40, Ovi remains a dominant force, leading the league in even-strength goals per 60 and tying Gordie Howe’s age-39 goal record. Though his future beyond this season is uncertain, he’s focused on performing at a high level again for the Capitals.

Meanwhile, former Capital Evgeny Kuznetsov is weighing offers, with the Montreal Canadiens emerging as a possible destination. Kuzy, now 33, is looking for a bounce-back deal—no PTOs—with hopes of reuniting with Ivan Demidov and boosting Montreal’s center depth. The Caps also added KHL scoring standout Sheldon Rempal on a two-way deal to bolster AHL Hershey, bringing in proven offensive talent who could serve as valuable forward depth.

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