Locked On Capitals - Daily Podcast On The Washington Capitals

The Washington Capitals are facing key decisions with four pending unrestricted free agents as July 1 approaches. Anthony Beauvillier, who impressed with his versatility after being acquired mid-season, could be the most likely to return—though younger players vying for roster spots may limit that possibility. Lars Eller, a franchise legend known for his 2018 Cup-winning goal, seems likely to move on as the team prioritizes youth and an upgrade at third-line center.

Depth forwards Taylor Raddysh and Andrew Mangiapane also appear on the way out. Raddysh, despite a solid season, was scratched down the stretch, while Mangiapane’s reliable two-way play may not be enough to earn a new deal amid Washington’s prospect push. The Capitals' offseason will be shaped by their decision to balance veteran presence with the development of young talent ready to break through.

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Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Seth Toupal (Locked On Wild) and Tom Callahan (Locked On Mammoth) are here to talk about how the Panthers are outclassing the Oilers, as well as the coaching drama happening in Dallas!

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The latest Locked On Capitals dives into a surprising trade rumor involving Dallas Stars forward Jason Robertson. With Dallas facing cap pressure, GM Jim Nill is reportedly listening to offers for Robertson and Mason Marchment. Washington, with its cap space and strong prospect pool, could be in a position to make a bold move — possibly giving up a player like Andrew Cristall. Meanwhile, Marchment is seen as a possible rental option if a blockbuster doesn’t happen.

The episode also highlights T.J. Oshie’s emotional retirement and Tom Wilson’s heartfelt tribute, revealing their deep bond. In the final segment, the spotlight turns to the future with Caps prospects Andrew Cristall and Ilya Protas up for CHL honors after dominant junior seasons. The Capitals’ future looks bright with both players showing elite-level potential.

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T.J. Oshie officially announced his retirement from the NHL during an emotional speech at the Georgetown Waterfront, seven years to the day after celebrating the Capitals' Stanley Cup victory at the same location. Surrounded by teammates, family, and fans, Oshie reflected on his 16-year career with heartfelt gratitude and shared memories — from learning the game from his late father to battling injuries in his final seasons. As pages of his speech scattered in the wind, his humor and humility showed why he was so beloved.

Oshie played 1,010 games, recorded 695 points, and became a key piece of the Capitals’ Stanley Cup run in 2018. Known as a fierce competitor and consummate teammate, he pushed through chronic back injuries and even a broken hand during his final playoff games. His retirement marks the end of an era for Washington, closing the chapter on a core group that defined the team’s most successful years. Oshie’s legacy will be remembered not just in stats — but in heart, leadership, and character.

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The NHL is actively considering changes to its long-standing agreement with the CHL that restricts 18- and 19-year-old drafted players from playing professionally unless they’ve turned 20 or completed four CHL seasons. These proposed revisions could fast-track the development of elite prospects like Capitals draft picks Terik Parascak and Eriks Mateiko, as well as previously affected players like Hendrix Lapierre and Andrew Cristall. Both Parascak and Mateiko are signed and could become eligible to play in Hershey or even challenge for NHL time if the rules change.

Meanwhile, former Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov remains in the headlines after SKA St. Petersburg head coach Igor Larionov stated publicly that Kuznetsov’s decline began “about six years ago.” After an underwhelming season in the KHL, Kuznetsov’s contract was terminated, and he is now a free agent weighing both overseas and NHL options. In coaching news, the Dallas Stars fired Pete DeBoer following another Western Conference Final loss, and two coaches connected to Washington—Mitch Love and Todd Nelson—may be among the candidates to replace him.

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Washington Capitals head coach Spencer Carbery made franchise history by winning the Jack Adams Award, becoming the first in NHL history to claim Coach of the Year honors in the ECHL, AHL, and NHL—all while rising through Washington’s own system. Players praised Carbery for his communication and trust, helping lead the Caps to 51 wins and their first playoff series victory since 2018.Meanwhile, the team’s goaltending future looks stable with Charlie Lindgren and Logan Thompson locked in, but questions remain on defense. With Martin Fehérváry’s playoff injury exposing depth issues, the Capitals may explore the July 1st free agent market for a reliable third-pair defenseman. The front office must balance short-term needs with long-term cap flexibility.

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In today's episode of Locked On Capitals, we dive into whether veteran forwards Chris Kreider or Jonathan Marchessault could be smart trade targets for Washington this offseason. Kreider, still under contract for two more years at $6.5 million AAV, brings grit, speed, and a net-front presence — the kind of physical winger who could thrive alongside Dylan Strome or Pierre-Luc Dubois. But with a 15-team no-trade list and recent injury issues, GM Brian MacLellan would need to weigh Kreider’s short-term impact against his cap hit and declining production. A deal would likely require the Rangers to retain salary and could cost the Caps a second-round pick plus a mid-tier prospect.

In segment two, we break down Jonathan Marchessault’s fit in D.C. The 34-year-old former Conn Smythe winner put up 56 points last season and still has four years left at a manageable $5.5 million cap hit. His offensive instincts and playoff experience could bolster Washington’s second line, but that contract term could be a sticking point. Would Nashville retain salary or take a depth piece in return? The debate is on. And in Segment 3, it’s our Caps Fan Friday where Aaron Freas joins me on the show.

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On today’s edition of Locked on Capitals, Dan is joined by Hockey Troll from the Caps Chirp Podcast to break down some major storylines for the Washington Capitals.

First, they discuss the incredible impact Nicklas Bäckström has had on Alex Ovechkin’s career. While Ovechkin is known for his goal-scoring, Bäckström’s playmaking and vision were a huge part of that success. The chemistry between the two has been foundational for the franchise for over a decade.

In the second segment, the conversation shifts to head coach Spencer Carbery. While Carbery brought energy and a new voice behind the bench, the Capitals still struggled in the postseason. Dan and Hockey Troll weigh whether system changes are needed to help the team take the next step or if it’s more about player execution.

Finally, they look ahead to the future of the franchise. With Ovechkin and John Carlson potentially entering their final season in D.C., the question becomes: who are the next faces of the Capitals? They explore some of the young talent in the pipeline and who might step up as the team’s future leaders.

That’s all coming up on this episode of Locked on Capitals — your team, every day.

FanDuel
Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in Bonus Bets if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins!

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings) and David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) are here to talk about the Stanley Cup Final beginning and where Mitch Marner is going to go in free agency, as well as some other key free agents!

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FanDuel
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FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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In today’s episode of Locked On Capitals, we break down three big offseason storylines surrounding the Washington Capitals. First, we examine whether Minnesota Wild center Marco Rossi—who’s reportedly on the trade block after rejecting a long-term extension—fits into Washington’s plans. While Rossi’s age, two-way skill, and offensive upside match what the Capitals are seeking, his addition would crowd an already deep center group and potentially block young talent like Connor McMichael and Hendrix Lapierre.

Next, we explore whether the Capitals could make a bold move with an offer sheet for Sabres winger J.J. Peterka, who scored 68 points this season. While Peterka is a dynamic young forward who fits the team’s need for top-six scoring, the cost and risk associated with offer sheets—either a massive cap hit or high draft pick compensation—make it an unlikely route. Finally, we revisit the infamous Filip Forsberg trade, which sent the future All-Star to Nashville for Martin Erat in 2013. Though Washington eventually won the Stanley Cup, the lopsided deal still serves as a cautionary tale in sacrificing future stars for short-term gain.

FANDUEL DISCLAIMER: 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN)

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