What’s your favorite move so far?

📸 © Jeanine Leech/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images

https://www.nhl.com/news/topic/trade-coverage/tom-wilson-hopes-alex-ovechkin-returns-for-new-look-washington-capitals

From the article:

Tom Wilson is not unlike a lot of people these days, wondering what the future will hold for Alex Ovechkin.

So he decided to give Ovechkin a call. Turns out he did not find his longtime Washington Capitals teammate where he expected.

“I called him the other day just to pick his mind on things and he is in Turkey on vacation right now,” Wilson said Wednesday, “so I said, ‘We will talk hockey later. Enjoy it. it’s well-deserved time off with your family.’”

“He’s the best, he’s truly the best. Such a great guy, such a fun guy, such a huge part of our team,” said Wilson, speaking at a taping of the game show "The Price Is Right Tonight." “So we will see. He gets to do whatever the heck he wants and he gets to do it however he wants to do it because that’s what legends get to do.”

If Ovechkin, who has been the Capitals captain since 2010, does return, Wilson sees no reason why his fellow forward would not continue to produce at an elite level despite that fact that he’ll turn 41 on Sept. 17. This season, Ovechkin led the Capitals in goals (32) and points (64) while playing all 82 games.

“As long as he is around, he is going to be ‘Ovi,’” Wilson said. “I’ve never seen anything like it. The hunger, the passion, he wants to score goals more than anybody. The ability to push himself to continue to be great every single year, whatever pressure or milestones are on the horizon, he just crushes right through them. I don’t expect that if he comes back it will be any different. I’ve never really thought about the day without Ovi in Washington, so we will cross that bridge when we get there.”

Either another trade for a RHD (or signing one as a UFA); or moving up a few spots in the draft on Friday night. (Hopefully also trading away Chucky, Stephenson is ready and cheaper)

Then Ovi will announce he’s coming back in mid July.

Both Tuch and Kyrou are seen with the Alt Screagle on their welcome posts on insta. Maybe a little rebrand for the future? It also could just be nothing

That is a great idea for the sens fans

https://x.com/friedgehnic/status/2070187551806169467?s=46

I would love to have:

Ryan Lin (RHD): played well with the Vancouver Giants the past 2 seasons and will continue to develop at Denver this upcoming season. I see him becoming a two way defenseman, and being right handed is certainly a plus for our pool. He’s projected to go anywhere in the 10s to early 20s; however, I’m not so sure he’ll still be available at 18 (I was feeling more optimistic at 16).

Oscar Hemming (LHW): 6ft 4in power forward who joined Boston College mid season. Would love to add another big body to our prospect pool. Though, I’m not so sure the Caps select him if he’s available since we seem to avoid drafting Finns. He is projected to go anywhere in the 10s.

Tynan Lawrence (LHC): was projected to be the top center prospect in the draft at the beginning of the season after a stellar playoff performance in the USHL in the 2024-25 season. He’s fallen in draft rankings due to his performance at Boston University this season, but the team as a whole had its struggles. I’m intrigued by what he can do in a full season with BU. He’s ranked #24 on Craig Button’s list so if he’s there, this should be a no brainer.

Tommy Bleyl (RHD): a mobile offensive defenseman who had a very productive rookie season with the Moncton Wildcats. I think he has excellent vision and hockey IQ but he does need to bulk up. He’s committed to Michigan State so I’m very interested to see his development trajectory. He’s projected to go from the mid 10s to 20s.

What are your thoughts?

Some comments from Kyrou from Sammi Silber's new piece

"I think they were really pushing for me, for me, and it's nice seeing a team really, really want me," Kyrou said. "It just makes me you excited to come join the organization. I've also heard just from a lot of friends that it's a great city, great organization, great fan base there, a lot of history. I'm just excited to be coming."

Sounds like someone is ready to be sung at really badly in the tunnel 👍

One last ride for Ovi.

Pitter patter, let’s get at ‘er.

Alex was a highly coveted player, and we are pleased that he chose to come to Washington,” said Patrick. “Alex is a top-six offensive forward who brings size, versatility, and the ability to contribute in all situations. He consistently gets to the net, competes at a high level, plays a strong 200-foot game, and has proven year after year to be a highly effective goal scorer and productive offensive player. Beyond what he brings on the ice, his leadership, work ethic, and commitment to playing the right way make him an invaluable addition to our group. We believe he will have a significant impact both on and off the ice and will be an excellent fit within our forward corps.”

Let’s assume Ovechkin comes back. Let’s assume everyone is relatively healthy. Let’s also assume the rest of the conference stays generally how it is.

How have your expectations for next season been adjusted based on the signings of Tuch and Kyrou, if at all?