The Washington Capitals enter this season knowing depth could make or break their playoff push. Injuries to key role players like Aliaksei Protas and Martin Fehervary last spring exposed how quickly the lineup can unravel, forcing Washington to lean too heavily on inexperienced players. If Chris Patrick wants this team to compete deep into the postseason, he can’t afford to gamble on a thin roster again.

Fortunately, the free agent market still offers options. Forwards like Jack Roslovic and Victor Olofsson bring scoring depth at different price points, while defensemen Matt Grzelcyk and Jan Rutta could solidify the blue line. Whether it’s a cheap gamble, a PTO, or a mid-season signing, Washington needs to act. With Ovechkin’s championship window still open, securing depth isn’t just smart — it’s essential.

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