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. Nats fans — or Caps, Wizards, Commanders fans...Looking to catch a game or live event in the DC area?Check out SeatGeek — the best ticket app that lets you shop smart, rate every deal, and sit where it matters.And here’s the kicker — SeatGeek is giving Talk Nats listeners $20 off your first purchase over $50.Just use the code: MINUTECAST at checkout.Again, that’s MINUTECAST — for 20 dollars off.Score the seats. Skip the hassle.https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals are hitting the ice ahead of training camp, and the early informal skates at MedStar Iceplex are already setting the tone for the season. Veterans like Alex Ovechkin, Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, and Pierre-Luc Dubois are pushing the pace, while newcomer Justin Sourdif is turning heads with his versatility and proven scoring touch from the AHL. These competitive sessions are more than just warmups — they’re raising the bar across the roster and giving coach Spencer Carbery a closer look at who’s ready to contribute from day one. Beyond the veterans, the spotlight is also on the next generation of Capitals talent. First-round pick Lynden Lakovic continues to show upside with his size and two-way game, while Andrew Cristall’s elite scoring touch and improved skating could make him the breakout story of camp. With roster battles heating up in the middle and bottom six, and special teams roles still up for grabs, Washington fans can expect a fascinating blend of veteran leadership and youthful competition shaping the Capitals’ 2025 season. Nats fans — or Caps, Wizards, Commanders fans...Looking to catch a game or live event in the DC area?Check out SeatGeek — the best ticket app that lets you shop smart, rate every deal, and sit where it matters.And here’s the kicker — SeatGeek is giving Talk Nats listeners $20 off your first purchase over $50.Just use the code: MINUTECAST at checkout.Again, that’s MINUTECAST — for 20 dollars off.Score the seats. Skip the hassle.https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals are heading into training camp with a major focus on youth, as GM Chris Patrick looks to give prospects a real chance to earn roster spots. Players like Ivan Miroshnichenko, Hendrix Lapierre, and Andrew Cristall headline a growing wave of young talent competing for ice time, while veterans such as Connor McMichael are preparing for bigger roles in the 2025–26 season. With roster flexibility and open competition on the horizon, the Capitals are betting on development and internal growth rather than quick veteran signings. One of the biggest storylines centers around Ryan Leonard, who enters his true rookie year with renewed confidence after spending the offseason building strength and sharpening his skating and shot. Leonard is determined to earn a spot on the opening-night roster and play with more freedom after a timid debut last season. Alongside Leonard, McMichael, Ilya Protas, and other young Capitals are making noise in informal skates, setting the stage for one of the most competitive camps in recent team history. Washington Capitals fans will be watching closely to see if the team’s youth movement can spark long-term Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Alex Ovechkin turns 40 as the Washington Capitals open training camp, and with the final year of his five-year contract set to begin, the big question is whether this will be his last NHL season. After breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record last season, Ovechkin now sits at 897 career goals and is just three shy of becoming the first player in league history to hit 900. Despite missing 16 games with a fractured fibula, he still scored 44 goals and proved he can still dominate. While general manager Chris Patrick says the team will let Ovechkin decide his future on his own timeline, speculation continues to swirl about whether the legendary captain will retire or push forward for another run. The playoff disappointment against Carolina may fuel Ovechkin’s motivation to return strong, and with milestones like 1,500 games and a top-10 spot on the all-time points list within reach, there are still records to chase. Ovechkin has hinted before about finishing his career in Russia with Dynamo Moscow, but for now, his focus remains on winning another Stanley Cup with Washington. Whether this season is the last chapter or not, Capitals fans should savor every game from the greatest goal scorer in NHL history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals showcased their physical dominance in a crucial playoff game against the Montreal Canadiens, led by Tom Wilson's impactful performance. From the moment the puck dropped, the Caps made it clear they were ready to play tough, with Wilson landing significant hits, including a notable open-ice collision with Alexandre Carrier. Despite a lackluster power play, which saw them struggle to convert on over eight minutes of advantage time, the Caps leaned into their aggressive style, successfully rattling the Canadiens and making crucial plays when it mattered most.With their top lines faltering, the Capitals’ depth players rose to the occasion, exemplified by Brandon Duhaime's game-tying goal and Andrew Mangiapane's eventual game-winner. The Caps displayed resilience against the Canadiens’ power play, managing to secure a 5–2 victory and taking a commanding 3–1 series lead. As they return home for Game 5, the Capitals aim to capitalize on their momentum and close out the series in front of their fans.Ready to snack smarter? Use the promo code MINUTECAST to get 15% off your Righteous Felon order! Visit https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST today and grab your new favorite snack!Get $20 off your first ticket purchase at http://seatgeek.com with promo code MINUTECAST! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Welcome to the Caps Minutecast! In today’s episode, we recap Game 2 where the Washington Capitals triumphed over the Montreal Canadiens with a convincing 3-1 win. A key highlight was Logan Thompson’s stellar performance in goal, particularly his crucial saves during the tense third period, including denying a breakaway. After a shaky start that saw the Caps fall behind 1-0, they quickly responded with Connor McMichael leveling the score and Dylan Strome netting the go-ahead goal, showcasing the team's resilience and offensive depth.Additionally, Anthony Beauvillier and Ryan Leonard stood out in this matchup, with Beauvillier impressing with a strong assist and Leonard contributing valuable plays while earning his first NHL playoff point. On defense, Alex Alexeyev made significant contributions, solidifying the blue line. The Capitals maintained aggressive pressure throughout the game, with McMichael sealing the victory with an empty-net goal.Later Dan talks about what to expect from the Habs in game 3 in Montreal Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as we continue to support our Caps on their playoff journey!Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (NATS AND CAPS tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com Crush your New Life resolution with Righteous Felon Jerky 15% off with promo: MINUTECAST https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
As the playoffs approach, the Canadiens find themselves in a challenging position, finishing 5th in the Atlantic Division. In contrast, the Washington Capitals are motivated to add another Stanley Cup to Alex Ovechkin's legacy before he retires. After a strong turnaround from last season's last-place finish, they won the Eastern Conference and Metro Division this year but enter the playoffs with a mixed record of 4-7-0 in their last eleven games, raising concerns about their consistency. The Capitals boast a physically dominant roster, featuring players like Tom Wilson and McIlrath, which could give them an edge over the Canadiens.Key players to watch for the Capitals include Logan Thompson, who is expected to return from injury, and backup Charlie Lindgren, who has performed well in his absence. The potential return of Protas, the team's third-highest scorer, is also crucial. Meanwhile, Dylan Strome's impressive 82-point season and Ovechkin's 44 goals highlight the offensive threats Washington poses. With multiple players showcasing offensive depth, the Capitals aim to leverage their strengths against the Canadiens, especially considering their last playoff encounter in 2010 ended with an unexpected elimination for Washington.Ready to snack smarter? Use the promo code MINUTECAST to get 15% off your Righteous Felon order! Visit https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST today and grab your new favorite snack!Get $20 off your first ticket purchase at http://seatgeek.com with promo code MINUTECAST! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals are gearing up for the Stanley Cup Playoffs as the number one seed in the Eastern Conference, and there’s excitement building around the team. However, crucial health updates have emerged regarding key players, particularly star goaltender Logan Thompson and forward Aliaksei Protas. Both players are currently listed as questionable for Game One, which raises concerns among fans, even as Head Coach Spencer Carbery remains optimistic about their progress.Despite the injury uncertainty, there’s still hope for the Capitals as neither player has been ruled out for the opening series. If Thompson and Protas can return to around 80% health, their contributions could play a vital role in the team's pursuit of a championship. As the playoffs approach, the team’s potential to contend for the Stanley Cup in 2025, along with the quest for a second championship for Alex Ovechkin, adds an exciting layer to the postseason journey.Ready to snack smarter? Use the promo code MINUTECAST to get 15% off your Righteous Felon order! Visit https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST today and grab your new favorite snack! Get $20 off your first ticket purchase at http://seatgeek.com with promo code MINUTECAST! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals have signed forward Ryan Leonard to a three-year, entry-level contract, effective immediately, which has an average annual value of $950,000 and extends through the 2026-27 season. Leonard, who was drafted eighth overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, is set to make his NHL debut against the Boston Bruins. At just 20 years old, he brings significant energy to the Capitals, who are focused on the Stanley Cup Playoffs. His impressive collegiate career at Boston College saw him record 60 points in his freshman year and lead the NCAA with 30 goals in his second season, earning him multiple accolades, including recognition as the Hockey East Player of the Year.Leonard has also made a mark internationally, helping Team USA secure gold at the IIHF World Junior Championships in both of the last two years and was named MVP this past January. He has a connection to the number 9, which he wore during his time at Boston College and with Team USA, possibly influenced by his brother, John Leonard, who also wore that number in college. Head coach Spencer Carbery has been following Leonard's progress closely and remains supportive as Leonard navigates the challenges following his team's recent loss in the NCAA Tournament.Use code MINUTECAST - $20 off your first SeatGeek order:https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeekCrush your New Life resolution with Righteous Felon Jerky 15% off with promo: MINUTECAST https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In this episode, we dive deep into the Capitals' electrifying performance as they sit atop the Metro Division and tie for the best team in the NHL! Join us as we celebrate Tom Wilson being named the NHL's Third Star of the Week, after he racked up seven points in just four games. The Capitals have officially eclipsed their previous season's points total, now boasting an impressive 92 points with a record of 42 wins, 14 losses, and 8 overtime losses!We'll shine a spotlight on Connor McMichael, who delivered the game-winning goal in his milestone 100th career NHL game. Plus, we’ll touch on Alex Ovechkin's historic achievements as he reaches 886 career goals and becomes the 11th player in NHL history to hit 1,600 career points!Charlie Lindgren's stellar performance in net was crucial to the Capitals' success, and we highlight Dylan Strome's milestone goal during his 500th career game, as well as Martin Fehervary setting a new personal best in points this season. Tune in for a recap of the physicality that defined the game, with Tom Wilson leading the charge and setting the tone for the Capitals in an intense showdown. It’s an exciting time to be a Caps fan, and we’ve got all the highlights covered in this episode! Don’t miss it!Use code MINUTECAST - $20 off your first SeatGeek order: http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In an exhilarating matchup, the Capitals secured a 5-4 overtime victory against the New York Islanders, highlighted by Jakob Chychrun's game-winning goal, extending his impressive point streak. Tom Wilson netted two goals, breaking his scoring drought, while Connor McMichael contributed three assists, showcasing his playmaking skills. Despite a goal being overturned in the second period, the Capitals responded resiliently in the third with goals from Dylan Strome and Wilson to tie the game. The power play continues to thrive in Alex Ovechkin's absence, and head coach Spencer Carbery's adjustments have fostered team chemistry, further demonstrating the Capitals’ depth and determination this season.Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals are entering November on a positive note after finishing October with a solid 7-2-0 record, including recent victories over the New York Rangers and Montreal Canadiens. Unfortunately, defenseman Jakob Chychrun has been placed on injured reserve due to an upper-body injury, while Matt Roy remains sidelined with a lower-body injury, although both are making progress. In their absence, Vincent Iorio has been recalled from the AHL to potentially fill in. The Capitals are set to host the Columbus Blue Jackets this weekend, who are looking to bounce back from a recent loss and have had a surprising start to the season. Washington's offense has notably improved, with players like Dylan Strome, Alex Ovechkin, and Connor McMichael contributing significantly to a higher goal average than last season.Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals are set to take on the New York Rangers, hoping for a better outcome than last season's sweep. The lineup will see Mike Sgarbossa take over as third-line center due to Hendrix Lapierre being a healthy scratch after struggling without a point in his first seven games. Coach Spencer Carbery believes this break will help Lapierre reset mentally. Other than these changes, the forward lines and defensive pairings remain unchanged, with Sonny Milano and Alex Alexeyev also scratched. Logan Thompson is starting in goal, continuing the rotation with Charlie Lindgren. Additionally, Matt Roy will sit out his seventh consecutive game due to a lower-body injury but is making progress, participating in morning skate in a non-contact jersey.Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Pierre-Luc Dubois has had a significant positive impact on the Washington Capitals early in the season, both in terms of individual performance and team dynamics. His effective play as a second-line center, coupled with strong contributions from other players like Tom Wilson, has helped elevate the team's overall performance. Additionally, Dubois is building strong relationships with his teammates and demonstrating a commitment to improving and integrating into his new team. As a result, the Capitals are showing promising signs of competitiveness as the season progresses.Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (Caps, Commanders and Wizards tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
-Ovechkin outlook-Osh and Backy-PLD first line center-Does Vrana have what it takes-Long term answers in netUse code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (Caps, Commanders tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In the first topic, there is a tragic incident involving NHL player Johnny Gaudreau and his brother, who lost their lives in a bicycle accident with a suspected intoxicated driver. The second topic covers the suspected driver, Sean M. Higgins, and the charges against him, including driving under the influence of alcohol. The third topic details Sean M. Higgins's court appearance, his representation, and the impact on the Gaudreau family. In the fourth topic, Johnny Gaudreau's successful NHL career is highlighted, as well as the impact of his and his brother's untimely deaths. The final topic discusses the uncertainty surrounding T.J. Oshie's status as a veteran forward for the Washington Capitals, due to ongoing injuries and his potential impact on the team's upcoming season.Join the over 10 million men worldwide who trust MANSCAPED® for all their grooming needs and get the special-edition Lawn Mower® 5.0 Ultra in White Hot while supplies last!Head over to MANSCAPED.com and grab yours now! When you use my promo code MINUTECAST you’ll get 20% OFF + Free International Shipping at checkout!That’s 20% OFF plus free shipping with promo code MINUTECAST at Manscaped.com! Make this summer the smoothest Use code MINUTECAST - $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (Capitals, Commander and Wizards tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals are strategizing on the potential return of Jakub Vrana, whose roster spot is contingent on T.J. Oshie's health status. Vrana faces competition from other wingers, and his performance in the preseason could impact trade discussions. The team has made significant trade acquisitions and free agent signings, as well as seeing player departures. In the NHL Draft, they made notable selections, and the new general manager Chris Patrick has been officially introduced. There have been various organizational changes, with an emphasis on maintaining competitiveness while transitioning past the Ovechkin era.**Join the over 10 million men worldwide who trust MANSCAPED® for all their grooming needs and get the special-edition Lawn Mower® 5.0 Ultra in White Hot while supplies last!Head over to MANSCAPED.com and grab yours now! When you use my promo code MINUTECAST you’ll get 20% OFF + Free International Shipping at checkout!That’s 20% OFF plus free shipping with promo code MINUTECAST at Manscaped.com! Make this summer the smoothest--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------**Use code MINUTECAST - $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (Capitals, Commander and Wizards tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Topic 1: Trade DetailsThe Washington Capitals have made modifications to their forward lines by securing the services of Andrew Mangiapane from the Calgary Flames ahead of the 2024 NHL Draft. General manager Brian MacLellan disclosed that Washington traded a 2025 second-round pick to Calgary in return for Mangiapane. Moreover, the Calgary Flames have traded Andrew Mangiapane to the Washington Capitals for a 2025 second-round pick. Topic 2: Andrew Mangiapane's PerformanceDuring the last season with the Flames, Mangiapane showcased his prowess with 14 goals and 26 assists, accumulating 40 points in 75 games. Notably, he recorded 72 high-danger scoring chances at 5-on-5, the highest on Calgary's roster. This transaction comes on the heels of Washington's recent acquisition of Pierre-Luc Dubois. Topic 3: Contract DetailsMangiapane is in the final season of a three-year contract with a $5.8 million AAV, signed in August 2022. Having spent his entire seven-year career with the Flames, Mangiapane was originally selected by Calgary in the sixth round of the 2015 draft.Topic 4: Calgary Flames' PerspectiveThe Calgary Flames made the decision to trade Mangiapane taking into consideration his age, contractual details, and performance. Additionally, shedding his $5.8 million AAV without retaining salary represents a significant benefit for the Flames. The acquisition of a second-round pick will support the Flames in their long-term retooling efforts.Topic 5: Cap Space and Draft PicksThe Flames currently hold just under $29 million in cap space, according to CapFriendly. Following this transaction, the Calgary Flames now possess four picks (two first-round and two second-round) in the first two rounds of the 2025 NHL Draft. This is in consideration of the Flames potentially losing a first-round pick in the upcoming draft due to the Sean Monahan trade.The summary of the provided text is as follows:- Terik Parascak had a remarkable season in the WHL, leading to his selection by the Washington Capitals in the 2024 NHL Draft.- The Washington Capitals have not re-signed Max Pacioretty or Nicolas Aube-Kubel, who are the team's only unrestricted free agents.- The team acquired Andrew Mangiapane from the Calgary Flames by trading a 2025 second-round pick.- Mangiapane had an impressive performance with the Flames last season, recording 40 points in 75 games and leading in high-danger scoring chances at 5-on-5.Get 20% OFF @manscaped + Free Shipping with promo code MINUTECAST at MANSCAPED.comCrush your New Year's resolution with Righteous Felon Jerky 15% off with promo: MINUTECASThttps://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST Life is too short to not have the hair you deserve visit our friends and sponsor at HAIRCLUB so you can have the confidence to take on your day:https://www.hairclub.com/lp/refer?rfsn=7706149.337029&pub=IPREFCLRERECA12476&referralCode=MINUTECASTPROMO CODE: MINUTECAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Washington Capitals acquired center Pierre-Luc Dubois from the Los Angeles Kings in exchange for goalie Darcy Kuemper, resulting in salary cap savings for the LA Kings. Kuemper is expected to take the lead as the No. 1 goalie for the Kings, with David Rittich also set to receive considerable playing time. Shepard and Lindgren are valued prospects for the Washington Capitals' goaltending position. Lindgren provided the Capitals with capable goaltending, posting a .910 save percentage and a 2.65 goals against average in his last ten games of the regular season. Additionally, Hunter Shepard had a remarkable season in the AHL, leading in goals-against average and save percentage, and making his NHL debut with the Washington Capitals.SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: TAKE 20%OFF PLUS FREE SHIPPING AT http://WWW.MANSCAPED.COM WITH PROMO: MINUTECASTUse code MINUTECAST - $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (Capitals tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com Crush your New Year's resolution with Righteous Felon Jerky 15% off with promo: MINUTECAST https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECASTLife is too short to not have the hair you deserve visit our friends and sponsor at HAIRCLUB so you can have the confidence to take on your day: https://www.hairclub.com/lp/refer?rfsn=7706149.337029&pub=IPREFCLRERECA12476&referralCode=MINUTECAST PROMO CODE: MINUTECAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It's great to see the team's perseverance and the return of Pierrick Dubé after a significant injury. The rematch against the Coachella Valley Firebirds sounds like it will be an intense and thrilling series. It's impressive how you've captured the excitement and anticipation leading up to the Finals. Good luck to the Hershey Bears in their quest for another championship title!Dan then talks about the Capitals acquisition of CapFriendly.com and is it the right idea to have Monumental (owned by the capitals) be in control of the broadcasters and writers?SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS:TAKE 20%OFF PLUS FREE SHIPPING AT http://WWW.MANSCAPED.COM WITH PROMO: MINUTECASTUse code MINUTECAST - $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (BUCS, Rays tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.comCrush your New Year's resolution with Righteous Felon Jerky 15% off with promo: MINUTECAST https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECASTLife is too short to not have the hair you deserve visit our friends and sponsor at HAIRCLUB so you can have the confidence to take on your day: https://www.hairclub.com/lp/refer?rfsn=7706149.337029&pub=IPREFCLRERECA12476&referralCode=MINUTECAST PROMO CODE: MINUTECAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices