With Alex Ovechkin approaching 40, the Washington Capitals are in a critical period where they must maximize their chances of contending while their captain is still performing at a high level. After missing out on free agent Nikolaj Ehlers, General Manager Chris Patrick may turn to the trade market to add a top-six forward. While the Capitals have limited cap space, they can exceed the cap by 10% during the offseason, allowing for some flexibility. Here are three potential trade targets for the Capitals this summer:
1. Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis Blues)
Jordan Kyrou is a highly productive winger currently with the St. Louis Blues. The 27-year-old is coming off a 70-point season, leading the Blues in goals with 36. Kyrou has a proven track record as a 30-goal scorer and could be a valuable addition to Washington's top line alongside Ovechkin. However, Kyrou has a full no-trade clause, giving him control over any potential move. The opportunity to play with Ovechkin might entice him to waive it, should St. Louis be willing to trade him. To acquire Kyrou, the Capitals might need to offer a package including NHL-ready prospects and a future draft pick. One potential trade could involve Hendrix Lapierre, Ivan Miroshnichenko, and a 2027 second-round pick.
2. Nick Robertson (Toronto Maple Leafs)
Nick Robertson of the Toronto Maple Leafs could be a realistic acquisition for the Capitals. Robertson, a former second-round pick, was once considered a potential star but has faced setbacks due to injuries. However, he has shown flashes of goal-scoring ability, with 29 goals in the past two seasons despite limited ice time. At 23, Robertson still has time to develop and could become a valuable middle-six scoring option for Washington. He has requested a trade from the Maple Leafs, and his value may not be too high, making him an accessible target for the Capitals.
3. Jack Roslovic
Jack Roslovic is a young, point-producing forward that can do a lot of different things well. If his contract projects around $4 million AAV, the Caps would have enough to sign him.
The Capitals are at a crossroads as they transition from the old guard to a younger core. Trading away players who do not add value can bring in assets and cap space. Goaltender Charlie Lindgren could be a valuable trade chip, as there are few starting goaltender options available in free agency. Trading Lindgren would free up $3 million in cap space, which could be used to sign a cheaper backup like Anton Forsberg. Sonny Milano is another player the Capitals could look to move on from to free up cap space.
