The Capitals are reportedly focusing on trading contracts to improve their future team positioning ahead of the deadline.
The Washington Capitals are currently enjoying a three-game winning streak and are closer to securing a playoff spot in the Eastern Conference than they have been in recent weeks. Despite their improved performance, the Capitals are expected to focus on trading players to improve their future prospects as the March 8 trade deadline approaches.
General manager Brian MacLellan indicated earlier this month that the team’s deadline plans would depend on their performance in a three-game stretch against top teams, in which they went 1-1-1. According to ESPN’s Emily Kaplan, most people around the league believe the Capitals will look to offload some contracts to position themselves better for the future, while also balancing the desires of legacy players like captain Alex Ovechkin.
Kaplan highlighted several players who could be traded, including Nic Dowd and Joel Edmundson, who have drawn interest from other teams. Anthony Mantha, despite a strong season, could also be a trade target due to his impending unrestricted free agency this summer. Additionally, there is a possibility that Max Pacioretty could be traded, although his full no-movement clause gives him significant control over any potential trade.
The Capitals have six games remaining before the trade deadline, with matchups against playoff-contending teams like the Florida Panthers, Detroit Red Wings, Philadelphia Flyers, and Pittsburgh Penguins.
