In this Mailbag Monday episode of Locked On Capitals, host Dan Holmi fields fan questions about the team’s offseason strategy. He discusses where the Capitals might upgrade their roster after re-signing Nic Dowd, including targeting a scoring winger to balance the middle six. Goaltending with Charlie Lindgren and Logan Thompson is stable for now, but not untouchable. The segment also highlights potential trade chips on defense, such as Martin Fehérváry or Trevor van Riemsdyk, to improve forward depth ahead of the 2025–26 season.

The episode also dives into Alex Ovechkin’s next chapter after surpassing Wayne Gretzky with 897 career goals. Holmi breaks down why Ovi remains a key piece and how Tom Wilson is the likely heir to the captaincy. Ryan Leonard’s pro debut is discussed—he’s done at Providence and will either make the Capitals’ opening night roster or start the season with the Hershey Bears. Finally, the show examines Alexei Protas’ emergence as a first-line regular and whether this retooled roster is ready to push for a playoff spot next spring.

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