The Washington Capitals are making tough roster decisions as training camp winds down. With preseason cuts piling up and a long list of waiver-eligible players at risk, the battle for roster spots has never been tighter. Rising young talents like Andrew Cristall, Hendrix Lapierre, and Vincent Iorio are putting pressure on veterans and bubble players alike, while the team also weighs the goaltending logjam between Logan Thompson, Charlie Lindgren, and Clay Stevenson. We break down the latest moves, including Lynden Lakovic being sent back to juniors, Spencer Smallman and Calle Rosen hitting waivers, and what the Capitals’ expected lineup could look like on opening night.

In this episode of the Caps Minutecast Podcast, host Dan Holmi dives deep into Washington’s biggest preseason storylines. From Cristall’s highlight-reel goal in Hershey to Iorio’s physical transformation, we analyze which young players are ready to force their way onto the roster. Plus, we discuss the uncertainty surrounding veteran defenseman John Carlson’s future, how the Capitals can balance youth development with competing for a playoff spot, and what to watch as the team prepares for their October 8 season opener against the Boston Bruins.

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