The Washington Capitals made a major commitment to their blue line by re-signing 25-year-old defenseman Martin Fehérváry to a seven-year, $42 million extension. The shutdown rearguard, who led Washington in shorthanded ice time last season and posted a career-high 25 points, is viewed as a cornerstone of the team’s future. GM Chris Patrick praised Fehérváry’s work ethic, skating, and team-first mentality, highlighting his importance as the franchise transitions to a younger core. Despite undergoing meniscus surgery in April, Fehérváry is expected to be ready for training camp.

Meanwhile, the Capitals are aggressively pursuing forward Nikolaj Ehlers to bolster their top-six depth. Ehlers, coming off a 63-point season in Winnipeg, would provide much-needed speed and offensive punch. His addition could slot Connor McMichael into a third-line center role. Elsewhere, veteran Lars Eller signed with Ottawa after a diminished role in D.C., and defenseman Ethan Bear inked a deal with the Islanders following an AHL All-Star campaign in Hershey. The offseason is heating up — and the Capitals aren’t done yet.

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