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Tag: Washington Capitals

  • Washington Capitals Acquire Andrew Mangiapane in Trade

    Washington Capitals Acquire Andrew Mangiapane in Trade

    As we prepare for the 2024 NHL Draft, the Washington Capitals would acquire forward Andrew Mangiapane from the Calgary Flames.

    A week after the Caps made their first big move of the offseason when they traded goaltender Darcy Kuemper for forward Pierre-Luc Dubois, General Manager Brian MacLellan would continue to make moves as he would trade Colorado’s 2025 second round pick (from the Lars Eller trade) to the Flames for forward Andrew Mangiapane.

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    The Player

    Mangiapane made his debut with Calgary during the 2017-18 season where he would play ten games, but would not record any points. Then during the 2018-19 season Mangiapane would play in 44 games for his rookie season and record eight goals and five assists for 13 points. He would then record 32 points in both the shortened 2019-20 (17g, 15a) and 2020-21 (18g, 14a) seasons. In what would be his first full NHL season, Mangiapane would play in all 82 games and record a career high 35 goals and 20 assists for also a career high 55 points.

    Then in the past two seasons, Mangiapane would crack 40 points as he would record 17 goals and 26 assists in 2022-23, and 14 goals and 26 assists in 2023-24. Mangiapane would also be a combined +39 his past three seasons. Overall in 417 games played, Mangiapane has 109 goals and 106 assists for 215 points.

    In the playoffs, Mangiapane has appeared in the playoffs three times with the Flames where he has played in a combined 27 games, and has recorded six goals and six assists for 12 points.

    The Contract

    Mangiapane will be entering the final year of a three year contract that he signed in the summer of 2022. His salary cap hit will be $5.8 million, and as part of the trade, the Flames did not retain any salary, so the Caps will be on the hook for the full amount during the 2024-25 season. Mangiapane’s deal also carries a Modified No Trade Clause where he needs to submit an 8 team no trade list. Mangiapane will be an unrestricted free agent when the 2024-25 season has concluded.

    Overall Thoughts

    Overall, I love this trade. Mangiapane is someone I’ve always liked on the Flames, and is someone who has also brought good fantasy value for those that do Fantasy Hockey. I can see that the change of scenery will be good for Mangiapane, and he is someone that you can plug in the middle six part of the lineup. I also wouldn’t be surprised if he gets some looks on the powerplay and penalty kill as well. I’m very interested to see how Spencer Carbery will utilize him this upcoming season.

    Also, this goes without saying, but I’d probably expect Mangiapane to wear 88 this season, but we’ll see.

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  • Breaking Down the Caps 50th Anniversary Branding

    Breaking Down the Caps 50th Anniversary Branding

    It has finally come! The Washington Capitals unveiled their 50th Anniversary branding on Monday morning, and there is so much to take in and breakdown in regard to what we’ll be seeing for the next year.

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    The 50th Anniversary Logo

    Taking a look at the Primary Logo first, we have a sleek, retro look that features the original lowercase Capitals font in it’s reverse-italic design that debuted back in 1974. The logo features the original Capitals wordmark up above the number 50 with the iconic Stick and Puck that has always been associated with the Capitals logos throughout their history. Underneath the “5” you see it say “Est. 1974” to recognize the year the team was established, and at the very bottom we see five stars alternating between red and blue. The stars represent how many decades the Capitals have been in the DMV. The colors for the primary logo use the original red and blue that were used back in 1974 to give it that true retro feel.

    Overall, I like it. It’s a simple logo that does what it’s supposed to do and pay tribute to the past, and that’s all that really needed to be accomplished.

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    Jersey Patch

    Moving onto the jersey patch, the Capitals are utilizing what they are calling the secondary logo for the 50th Anniversary. Same style font and look with the 50 and stick and puck, but this time it has a more 3D feel to it which allows for it to pop more when it’s on the jersey. Gone are the stars and the “Capitals”, but the “Est 1974” remains but in a cut ribbon fashion. Again, an overall solid look.

    One other thing that I like about this is that the patch’s colors match that of the jersey it is on. So for the home and road jerseys, the patches will be in the current red and navy blue, so it blends really nicely with the jersey.

    However, with that said, where it’s going to be placed on the home jersey is very disappointing. Due to the ill-advised ad patch for that sportsbook, the 50th Anniversary patch will not sit on the right breast like tradition usually has it at, but instead it will be placed on the left breast of the jersey where the C and A’s go for Alex Ovechkin and the rest of the leadership group. This will lead to clunkiness, and will not look appealing at all. I dread media day and seeing those player head shots with the patch on it with a C or A next to it.

    I would expect that on the road white jerseys the 50th Anniversary patch would be on the right breast like normal.

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    Alternative Logos

    Next up we have the alternate logos, and we’re also going to include the wordmarks here too. For the alternative logo the Capitals placed their primary 50th Anniversary logo in a circle border that is blue but with a white filling for the background. Now I know what you’re thinking, that’s not much of an alternate, and you’re right, but it’s what they are doing with the alternate that makes me excited.

    So we know the primary logo is in the 1974 red, white, and blue, but as we have learned through both the info graphics, and in the promotional video introducing the 50th Anniversary logo, but there will be a “90’s Era” version and a “Modern Era” version. The primary is in what the Capitals are calling “Caps Classic”. The “90’s Era” is the one I’m personally more excited for as it features the Blue, Black, and Bronze colors. As of now we don’t know how often we’re going to get to see these colors, but I’m hoping that it’ll be just as frequent as the other versions. The third version is obviously the “Modern Era” with the current colors, and it looks fine.

    Wordmarks

    Looking at the wordmarks for the Capitals, they took a page from the secondary logo, and gave it a more 3D look to it which makes it standout really nicely. The three versions they have say “Capitals 50th”, “Capitals 50th Anniversary” with anniversary underneath Capitals 50th, and “Capitals 50th Anniversary” with all three in a straight line. For all three they utilize the secondary logo for the “50”. As of now we have only seen the wordmarks int eh 1974 colors, and will be interesting to see if they release them in the 90’s and Modern era versions.

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  • Former Cap Chris Simon Passes Away

    Former Cap Chris Simon Passes Away

    It is with sad news today that we have learned of the passing of former Washington Capitals forward Chris Simon.

    Simon, who was born in Wawa, Ontario, Canada, was drafted into the NHL 25th overall by the Philadelphia Flyers in the 1990 NHL Draft, but would be part of the infamous Eric Lindros trade to the Quebec Nordiques that would also see Peter Forsberg, Steve Duchesne, Kerry Huffman, Mike Ricci, Ron Hextall, and a pair of draft picks go to Quebec.

    Simon would shift over to Colorado when the Nordiques relocated to Denver in 1995 to become the Avalanche. During their first season in Colorado, Simon and the Avalanche would win the Stanley Cup in 1996. Then on November 2nd, 1997, Simon would be traded to the Capitals with Curtis Leschyshyn for Keith Jones and a pair of draft picks. Simon would play an integral part for the Capitals as he would be a part of the 1997-98 team that would make their first ever Stanley Cup Final appearance.

    In his seven years with the Capitals Simon would record career highs in goals (29 – 1999-2000), assists (20 – 1999-2000), and points (49 – 1999-2000). On November 1st, 2002 Simon would be traded to the Chicago Blackhawks, and after that he would go on to play for the New York Rangers, Calgary Flames, New York Islanders, and Minnesota Wild.

    Simon would end his NHL career in 2007-08 as a member of the Wild. Simon would go on to play in 15 NHL season that would see him play in 864 games with 144 goals and 161 assists for 305 points. Simon would also amass 1,824 penalty minutes.

    TXHT would like express our condolences to Simon’s family, friends, and former teammates during this difficult time. Simon was 52 years old.

  • TXHT 2024 NHL Trade Deadline Tracker

    TXHT 2024 NHL Trade Deadline Tracker

    Welcome to the TXHT 2024 NHL Trade Deadline Tracker where all trades will be tracked in the order they are announced.

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    Friday, March 8th, 2024

    • The Pittsburgh Penguins and Carolina Hurricanes would make a trade.
      • The Hurricanes would acquire forward Jake Guentzel and defenseman Ty Smith.
      • The Penguins acquired forwards Michael Bunting, Ville Koivunen, Cruz Lucius, and Vasily Ponomarev, a conditional 2024 1st Rd Pick, and a conditional 2024 5th Rd Pick.
        • The Penguins retained 25% of Guentzel’s salary.

    • The Washington Capitals and Carolina Hurricanes would make a trade.
      • The Hurricanes would acquire forward Evgeny Kuznetsov.
      • The Capitals would acquire a 2025 3rd Rd Pick.
        • The Capitals retained 50% of Kuznetsov’s salary.

    • The Winnipeg Jets and New Jersey Devils would make a trade.
      • The Jets would acquire forward Tyler Toffoli.
      • The Devils would acquire a 2024 3rd Rd Pick and a 2025 2nd Rd Pick.
        • The Devils retained 50% of Toffoli’s salary.

    • The Florida Panthers and Buffalo Sabres would make a trade.
      • The Panthers would acquire forward Kyle Okposo.
      • The Sabres acquired defenseman Calle Sjalin and a conditional 2024 7th Rd Pick.

    • The Pittsburgh Penguins and New York Rangers would make a trade.
      • The Rangers would acquire defenseman Chad Ruhwedel.
      • The Penguins would acquire 2027 4th Rd Pick.

    • The Boston Bruins and Minnesota Wild would make a trade.
      • The Bruins would acquire forward Pat Maroon.
      • The Wild would acquire forward Luke Toporowski and a conditional 2026 6th Rd Pick.

    • The Arizona Coyotes and Nashville Predators would make a trade.
      • The Predators would acquire forward Jason Zucker.
      • The Coyotes would acquire a 2024 6th Rd Pick.

    • The Detroit Red Wings and San Jose Sharks would make a trade.
      • The Sharks would acquire forward Klim Kostin.
      • The Red Wings would acquire defenseman Radim Simek and a 2024 7th Rd Pick (NJ).

    • The Montreal Canadiens and New Jersey Devils would make a trade.
      • The Devils would acquire goalie Jake Allen.
      • The Canadiens would acquire a conditional 2025 3rd Rd Pick.
        • The Canadiens would retain 50% of Allen’s salary.

    • The Philadelphia Flyers and Nashville Predators would make a trade.
      • The Flyers would acquire forward Denis Gurianov.
      • The Predators would acquire forward Wade Allison.

    • The Buffalo Sabres and Philadelphia Flyers would make a trade.
      • The Flyers would acquire defenseman Erik Johnson.
      • The Sabres acquired a 2024 4th Rd Pick.

    • The Boston Bruins and Columbus Blue Jackets would make a trade.
      • The Bruins would acquire defenseman Andrew Peeke.
      • The Blue Jackets would acquire defenseman Jakub Zboril and a 2027 3rd Rd Pick.

    • The New York Rangers and Columbus Blue Jackets would make a trade.
      • The Rangers would acquire forward Jack Roslovic.
      • The Blue Jackets would acquire conditional 2026 4th RD Pick.
        • Blue Jackets would retain 50% of Roslovic’s salary.

    • The Vegas Golden Knights and San Jose Sharks would make a trade.
      • The Golden Knights acquired forward Tomas Hertl, a 2025 3rd Rd Pick, and a 207 3rd Rd Pick.
      • The Sharks acquired forward David Edstrom and a 2025 1st RD Pick.
        • The Sharks would retain 17% of Hertl’s salary.

    • The Winnipeg Jets and New Jersey Devils would make another trade.
      • The Jets would acquire defenseman Colin Miller.
      • The Devils acquired a 2026 4th Rd Pick.

    • The Toronto Maple Leafs and Minnesota Wild would make a trade.
      • The Maple Leafs would acquire forward Connor Dewar.
      • The Wild would acquire forward Dmitry Ovchinnikov and a 2026 4th Rd Pick.

    • The New Jersey Devils and San Jose Sharks would make a trade.
      • The Sharks would acquire goaltender Vitek Vanecek and a 2025 7th Rd Pick.
      • The Devils acquired goaltender Kaapo Kahkonen.

    • The Arizona Coyotes and Tampa Bay Lightning would make a trade.
      • The Lightning would acquire defenseman Matt Dumba and a 2025 7th Rd Pick.
      • The Coyotes would acquire a 2027 5th Rd Pick.

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    Thursday, March 7th, 2024

    • The Washington Capitals and Toronto Maple Leafs would make a trade.
      • The Maple Leafs would acquire defenseman Joel Edmundson.
      • The Capitals would acquire a 2024 3rd Rd Pick (NYI) and a 2025 5th Rd Pick (CHI).
        • The Capitals would retain 50% of Edmundson’s salary.

    • The Colorado Avalanche and the Minnesota Wild would make a trade.
      • The Avalanche would acquire forward Brandon Duhaime.
      • The Wild acquired a 2026 3rd Rd Pick.

    • The Edmonton Oilers and Arizona Coyotes would make a trade.
      • The Oilers would acquire defenseman Troy Stetcher and a 2024 7th Rd Pick (BOS).
      • The Coyotes would acquire a 2027 4th Rd Pick.

    • The Nashville Predators and Colorado Avalanche would make a trade.
      • The Avalanche acquired forward Yakov Trenin and defenseman Graham Sward.
      • The Predators acquired defenseman Jeremy Hanzel and a 2025 3rd Rd Pick.

    • The Nashville Predators and Chicago Blackhawks would make a trade.
      • The Predators acquired forward Anthony Beauvillier.
      • The Blackhawks acquired a 2024 5th Rd Pick.

    • The Tampa Bay Lightning and San Jose Sharks would make a trade.
      • The Lightning would acquire forward Anthony Duclair and a 2025 7th Rd Pick.
      • The Sharks would acquire defenseman Jack Thompson and a 2024 3rd Rd Pick.

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    Wednesday, March 6th, 2024

    • The Florida Panthers and Ottawa Senators would make a trade.
      • The Panthers would acquire forward Vladimir Tarasenko.
      • The Senators would acquire a 2025 3rd Rd Pick, and a conditional 2024 4th Rd Pick.
        • Ottawa retained 50% of Tarasenko’s salary.

    • The Colorado Avalanche and Philadelphia Flyers would make a trade.
      • The Avalanche would acquire defenseman Sean Walker and a 2026 5th Rd Pick.
      • The Flyers would acquire forward Ryan Johansen and a conditional 2025 1st Rd Pick.

    • The Colorado Avalanche and Buffalo Sabres would make a trade.
      • The Sabres acquired defenseman Bowen Byram.
      • The Avalanche acquired forward Casey Mittelstadt.

    • The Edmonton Oilers, Anaheim Ducks, and Tampa Bay Lightning would make a three team trade.
      • The Oilers acquired forwards Adam Henrique and Sam Carrick, and Anaheim’s 2024 7th Rd Pick.
        • The Oilers would also acquire the signing rights to goaltender Ty Taylor.
      • The Ducks acquired Edmonton’s 2024 1st Rd Pick, and a conditional 2025 5th Round Pick (EDM).
      • The Lightning would acquire a conditional 2026 4th Rd Pick (EDM).
        • The Ducks retained 50% of both Carrick (to EDM) and Henrique’s (to TB) salaries.
        • The Lightning also retained 50% of Henrique’s remaining salary when trading him to Edmonton.

    • The New York Rangers and Seattle Kraken would make a trade.
      • The Rangers would acquire forward Alex Wennberg.
      • The Kraken would acquire a 2024 2nd Rd Pick and a conditional 2025 4th Rd Pick (DAL).
        • The Kraken retained 50% of Wennberg’s salary.

    • The Vegas Golden Knights, Calgary Flames, and Philadelphia Flyers would do a three team trade.
      • The Golden Knights would acquire defenseman Noah Hanafin.
      • The Flames would acquire defenseman Daniil Miromanov, a Conditional 2025 1st Rd Pick, and a conditional 2025 3rd Rd Pick.
      • The Flyers would acquire Vegas’ 2024 5th Rd Pick.
        • Calgary retained 50% of Hanafin’s salary when trading him to Philadelphia.
        • Philadelphia would also retain 50% of Hanafin’s remaining salary when trading him to Vegas.

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    Tuesday, March 5th, 2024

    • The Washington Capitals and Vegas Golden Knights would make a trade.
      • The Capitals would acquire a 2024 2nd Round pick and a 2026 4th Round pick.
      • The Knights acquired forward Anthony Mantha.
        • The Capitals retained 50% of Mantha’s salary.

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    Friday, March 1st, 2024

    • The Toronto Maple Leafs, Anaheim Ducks, and Carolina Hurricanes would be part of a three team trade.
      • The Leafs acquired defenseman Ilya Lybushkin and the rights to forward Kirill Slepets.
      • The Ducks acquired Toronto’s 2025 3rd Round Pick.
      • The Hurricanes acquired Toronto’s 2024 6th Round Pick.
        • Anaheim retained 50% of Lybushkin’s initial salary when trading him to Carolina.
        • Carolina would retain 50% of Lybushkin’s remaining salary when trading him to Toronto.

    • The New Jersey Devils and Colorado Avalanche would make a trade.
      • The Devils acquired forward Kurtis MacDermid.
      • The Avalanche acquired forward Zakhar Bardakov and a 2024 7th Round Pick.

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    Wednesday, February 28th, 2024

    • The Calgary Flames, Dallas Stars, and New Jersey Devils would make a trade.
      • The Flames would acquire defenseman Artem Grushnikov, Dallas’ 2024 2nd Rd Pick, and a conditional 2026 3rd Rd pick.
      • The Stars acquired defenseman Chris Tanev and goaltender Cole Brady.
      • The Devils acquired Dallas’ 2026 4th Rd Pick.
        • The Flames would retain 50% of Tanev’s salary when they dealt him to the Devils.
        • The Devils would also retain 50% of Tanev’s salary when they dealt him to the Stars.
        • The conditional pick only happens if Dallas reaches the 2024 Stanley Cup Final.

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  • Washington Capitals Look to Rebound

    Washington Capitals Look to Rebound

    After a disappointing 2022-23 season, the Washington Capitals look to rebound and return to the playoffs in the 2023-24 season.

    2022-23

    Record: 35-37-10 (80 pts) – 6th in Metropolitan

    Playoffs: Did Not Qualify

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    Key Losses

    Conor Sheary (F – TB), Matt Irwin (D – VAN), Craig Smith (F – DAL), Peter Laviolette (Head Coach)

    Key Additions

    Max Pacioretty (F), Joel Edmundson (D), Spencer Carbery (Head Coach)

    2023-24 Preview

    The Washington Capitals had a mixed performance during the 2022-23 season, finishing with a record of 35-37-10 and totaling 80 points. They secured the 6th place in the Metropolitan Division but unfortunately did not qualify for the playoffs.

    Spencer Carbery is all smiles as he looks to the opportunity as the Washington Capitals look to rebound and return to the playoffs. - Photo Courtesy of the Washington Capitals
    Spencer Carbery is all smiles as he looks to the opportunity as the Washington Capitals look to rebound and return to the playoffs. – Photo Courtesy of the Washington Capitals

    Although the Capitals didn’t make it to the playoffs in the 2022-23 season, there is always an opportunity for growth and improvement. The team has a solid foundation with players like Alexander Ovechkin, Nicklas Backstrom, Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, and Rasmus Sandin. With the right guidance and strategy under the leadership of head coach Spencer Carbery, the Capitals aim to bounce back and perform stronger in the upcoming season.

    All eyes will be on Alex Ovechkin and how many goals he will score as the Washington Capitals look to rebound and return to the playoffs. – Photo Courtesy of the Washington Capitals

    The Great Ovi Chase

    Alex Ovechkin’s pursuit of Wayne Gretzky’s record for most goals scored in NHL history has been a captivating storyline in the world of hockey. Ovechkin, the prolific Russian forward and captain of the Washington Capitals, has consistently showcased his goal-scoring prowess throughout his career, making him one of the most exciting players to watch.

    As of the 2022-23 season, Ovechkin is still chasing Gretzky’s remarkable record of 894 career goals. Ovechkin’s electrifying playing style, combined with his deadly accurate shot and impeccable scoring instincts, has allowed him to accumulate an impressive number of goals. He has consistently been among the league leaders in goal scoring since entering the NHL in 2005, and his remarkable consistency season after season gives him a compelling chance to surpass Gretzky’s record.

    What makes Ovechkin’s chase even more remarkable is the era in which he is playing. The game has evolved significantly since Gretzky’s heyday, with increased emphasis on defense, goaltending, and structured systems. Despite these challenges, Ovechkin has continued to find ways to score goals at a remarkable pace. His ability to adapt and adjust his game to different opponents and styles of play is a testament to his greatness and determination.

    Ovechkin’s pursuit of Gretzky’s record serves as a testament to his longevity, skill, and passion for the game. If he continues at his current pace, it is not a question of if he will break the record, but when. Ovechkin’s quest has brought excitement and anticipation to the hockey world, with fans eagerly following his progress and celebrating each milestone he achieves along the way.

    As Ovechkin continues to chase Gretzky’s record, hockey fans will have the privilege of witnessing history in the making. Sitting at 822 goals right now, it’s not expected for Ovechkin to surpass Gretzky this season, but he will close the gap.

    As the Washington Capitals look to rebound and return to the playoffs, questions surround Niklas Backstrom. – Photo Courtesy of the Washington Capitals

    What Nicklas Backstrom are We Getting?

    Niklas Backstrom, the talented forward for the Washington Capitals, is undoubtedly looking to make a significant impact in the upcoming season after having a full offseason to train. Backstrom, known for his exceptional playmaking abilities and hockey IQ, has always been a key contributor to the Capitals’ success.

    Having a full offseason to train can be incredibly beneficial for any player, and Backstrom is no exception. It allows him to focus on improving his strength, speed, and overall conditioning, which can directly translate to better performance on the ice. Backstrom’s dedication to training during the offseason will undoubtedly help him maintain his high level of play and potentially take it to new heights.

    One area where Backstrom excels is his playmaking ability. His vision on the ice and his ability to anticipate and create scoring opportunities for his teammates are second to none. But how dangerous will he truly be?

    There are questions about the type of operation that Backstrom had on his hip. Will he be able to still keep up with the speed of the game? If not, is he really worth being a $9.2 million third or fourth line center? Only time will tell to see how Backstrom comes into the 2023-24 season.

    Dylan Strome proved that he can be a center of the future as the Washington Capitals look to rebound and return to the playoffs. – Photo Courtesy of the Washington Capitals

    More Impact from the Offense

    The Washington Capitals have a talented group of forwards heading into the 2023-24 season. Led by Ovechkin, the Capitals boast a combination of veteran experience and youthful energy among their forward lines.

    The Capitals also have forwards like Dylan Strome, and recent addition Max Pacioretty. Strome, a talented center, has shown offensive potential and has the ability to contribute offensively. Pacioretty, a fresh addition to the team, brings goal-scoring ability and veteran experience to the lineup. However, it will take some time before the Capitals see Pacioretty in the lineup as he is still recovering from an Achilles injury.

    The Capitals’ forward group also consists of promising young players like Sonny Milano and other prospects who could make an impact in the upcoming season. These young players add depth and energy to the team’s lineup and provide a glimpse into the future of the Capitals’ forward corps.

    Overall, the Capitals’ forwards going into the 2023-24 season provide a mix of scoring ability, playmaking skills, physicality, and depth. With the leadership of Ovechkin and Backstrom, along with the contributions of the supporting cast, the Capitals’ forward group will be a force to be reckoned with and will play a crucial role in the team’s success.

    After being acquired at the trade deadline, Rasmus Sandin will look to help the Washington Capitals as they look to rebound and return to the playoffs. – Photo Courtesy of the Washington Capitals

    Shoring Up the Blue Line

    The Washington Capitals have a solid defensive corps and goaltending heading into the 2023-24 season. While there may have been some changes and adjustments in the offseason, the team’s overall defensive system remains strong.

    On the blue line, the Capitals have players like John Carlson, Trevor van Riemsdyk, Nick Jensen, Martin Fehervary, and new addition Joel Edmundson. These defensemen provide a good mix of offensive skill, defensive reliability, and physicality. John Carlson, in particular, is a key player for the Capitals. He is an offensive threat from the blue line and plays a significant role in quarterbacking the power play.

    The defensive group also has promising young players like Rasmus Sandin and Alexander Alexeyev who can contribute in both ends of the ice. These young players bring speed, defensive awareness, and puck-moving abilities to the lineup. Their development and progression will be important factors for the Capitals’ success on defense.

    In terms of goaltending, the Capitals have a reliable tandem in net with Darcy Kuemper and Charlie Lindgren. Kuemper had a solid performance in the 2022-23 season, showing his ability to step up as a starter when needed, but it was also plagued due to injuries throughout the lineup. Lindgren also showed promise and is a solid backup option to Kuemper. The Capitals’ goaltending depth provides stability and options for the team.

    Overall, the Capitals have a strong defensive corps and goaltending going into the 2023-24 season. The combination of experienced defensemen, talented young players, and a reliable goaltending tandem will be key for the team’s success in shutting down opponents and keeping the puck out of their own net.

    After signing a new 7 year deal, Tom Wilson and the Washington Capitals look to rebound and return to the playoffs. – Photo Courtesy of the Washington Capitals

    The Tom Wilson Effect

    Tom Wilson, the power forward for the Washington Capitals, is a player who always generates a lot of attention both on and off the ice. Known for his physicality and agitator role, Wilson is an important piece of the Capitals’ lineup. In the 2023-24 season, there are several expectations surrounding Wilson’s performance.

    First and foremost, Wilson’s physical presence and ability to create havoc for opponents will continue to be an important factor for the Capitals. His aggressive style of play often disrupts opposing teams’ strategies and creates space for his teammates. Wilson is known for his strong forecheck and willingness to engage in physical battles, which can wear down opponents and open up opportunities for scoring.

    However, it is essential for Wilson to continue to maintain discipline and avoid unnecessary penalties, as he has faced suspensions in the past due to questionable hits. Finding the right balance between physicality and staying within the rules will be crucial for Wilson to contribute effectively to the team’s success.

    In addition to his physicality, Wilson has also improved his offensive game over the years. He has shown the ability to chip in offensively and contribute on the scoresheet. His presence in front of the net and his ability to create screens and deflections make him a valuable asset on the power play. Expectations for Wilson will include contributing consistently on the offensive end, both in terms of scoring goals and setting up plays for his teammates.

    Furthermore, as an established veteran player, Wilson will be looked upon to provide leadership and mentorship to the younger players on the team. His experience and knowledge of the game will be invaluable in helping the team develop and grow. Wilson’s ability to lead by example and guide the Capitals’ younger players in the right direction will be an essential aspect of his continuously growing role on the team.

    The expectations for Tom Wilson during the 2023-24 season are high. The Capitals will rely on his physicality, offensive contributions, leadership, and discipline to drive the team’s success. With the right approach, Wilson has the potential to play a significant role in helping the Capitals compete at a high level and make a push for the playoffs.

    While the 2022-23 season may not have been the most successful for the Capitals, the team undoubtedly has the potential to regroup and come back stronger in the next season. Fans can certainly look forward to exciting developments and improved performance from the Capitals in the future.

    Read our other 2023-24 Team Previews: ANA, ARI, BOS, BUF, CAL, CAR, CHI, COL, CLB, DAL, DET, EDM, FLA, LA, MIN, MON, NAS, NJ, NYI, NYR, OTT, PHI, PIT, SJ, SEA, STL, TB, TOR, VAN, VGK

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  • Canes Surge to Victory Outdoors Against Caps

    Canes Surge to Victory Outdoors Against Caps

    Carolina Hurricanes (37-10-8 82pts) v.s Washington Capitals (28-24-6 62pts)

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    Game Recap:

    Here we are, another outdoor spectacle for the National Hockey League as the Stadium Series features a Metropolitan Division matchup between the Carolina Hurricanes and Washington Capitals. It wouldn’t take the Hurricanes very long to get on the board thanks to an early goal from Jesperi Kotkaniemi who tipped in a feed from Teuvo Teravainen for the 1-0 lead. It would remain close for the rest of the first period heading into the intermission.

    Paul Stastny expanded Carolina’s lead to two as he put in the rebound off of a Justin Chatfield shot from the point. Moments later saw Martin Necas bombing a shot from the left face off circle on the power play to make it 3-0 in favor of the hole teams. Carolina took that lead heading into the third and final period.

    Midway through the third period saw the Hurricanes add to their lead for a four goal advantage. Goalie Frederik Andersen flipped the puck out to set up a 2 on 1 where Teuvo Teravainen was set up for the goal on a five and go between him and Martin Necas. Finally at the 10:32 mark, Tom Wilson would get the Capitals on the scoreboard as he fired a shot from a sharp angle and in to beat the goalie. Carolina would shut it down the rest of the way and win by a final score of 4-1.

    Lineups

    Carolina Hurricanes

    Washington Capitals

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    Game Highlights

    1st Period

    GOAL (CAR) 2:11- Jesperi Kotkaniemi (Teuvo Teravainen, Martin Necas)

    2nd Period

    GOAL (CAR) 5:47- Paul Stastny (Jalen Chatfield, Jordan Martinook)

    Power Play GOAL (CAR) 8:48- Martin Necas (Brent Burns, Jesperi Kotkaniemi)

    GOAL (CAR) 11:17- Teuvo Teravainen (Martin Necas, Frederik Andersen)

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    3rd Period

    GOAL (WSH) 10:32- Tom Wilson (Sonny Milano)

    Final Stats

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  • Stadium Series Preview: Caps and Canes

    Stadium Series Preview: Caps and Canes

    Carolina Hurricanes (36-10-8 80pts) v.s Washington Capitals (28-23-6 62pts)

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    Who’s ready for some more outdoor hockey? Get ready because we are twenty four hours away from an exciting matchup as the Carolina Hurricanes host the Washington Capitals at Carter-Finley Stadium, the home of College Football’s NC State in Raleigh, North Carolina.

    It’s always exciting whether you’re a hockey player or a fan when you take hockey back to its roots by playing the game where it started and was created…the outdoors. The NHL has done such a great job with the outdoor games going all the way back to the first Winter Classic between the Pittsburgh Penguins and Buffalo Sabres in 2008. As far as the Stadium Series game, it was introduced back in 2014 as we saw the Los Angeles Kings host the Anaheim Ducks at Dodger Stadium.

    Let’s take a look at our two participants in the Washington Capitals and the Carolina Hurricanes heading into this Stadium Series matchup:

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    Washington Capitals

    The Caps have been struggling a bit as of late with three straight losses in regulation after their victory over the league leading Boston Bruins last Saturday. Washington has been having challenges lately with scoring at even strength and on the power play. To be fair, some of those struggles come from injuries and absences to key players which has been the case a lot this season.

    Unfortunately for the Capitals, they will be without their captain and leading scorer Alex Ovechkin for the Stadium Series as he grieves the loss of his father who passed away recently. We all send Alex Ovechkin and his family nothing but comfort and strength during this difficult time. Despite their recent struggles, this is a team that has players that have experience playing in an outdoor game. I expect the Caps to draw back on those experiences as well as the fact that games like these tend to bring out the best in teams and they will find a way to step up their game.

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    Carolina Hurricanes

    It’s been a very good season so far for the Hurricanes as they have the second bast record in the NHL (36-10-8 80pts) and are trying to chase down the Boston Bruins for the league’s top spot. After having their seven game win streak snapped at the hand of the New York Rangers, Carolina got right back to their winning ways winning twice this week and defeating their Stadium Series opponent in the Capitals 3-2.

    This will be Carolina’s first experience with playing in an outdoor game. You can say it’s just another game, but this really isn’t just another game. Whether it’s the Winter Classic or a Stadium Series game, it’s definitely something special and much more than just a regular season game. It’ll be interesting to see how the Canes handle everything that comes with this and being the hosts of a game of this magnitude. Carolina is one of the best teams in the league and I’m sure they’ll play well in front of their fans.

    Prediction

    I see the Capitals winning in a close one by a score of 3-2 this time instead of the Hurricanes. Predicting right here that Nicklas Backstrom will get the game winner for Washington. The Caps have experience in outdoor games (3-0-0 record in outdoor games) and I expect them to use that to pull off the victory here. I am also predicting that overall, this is going to be a very fun event to be a part of no matter what the result will be, and I’m excited to be there in person to watch and cover this game. Stay tuned for more Stadium Series coverage from me here at TXHT!

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  • TXHT Jersey Share – Correcting Past Wrongs

    TXHT Jersey Share – Correcting Past Wrongs

    Ladies and gentlemen welcome to another edition of TXHT Jersey Share where today we take a look at the current Washington Capital alternate jersey which was purchased from CoolHockey.com.

    After moving away from the classic Retro Red jerseys, the Capitals debuted their first non-special event navy blue jersey when they created their current alternates. Also, by creating this jersey they corrected the many issues that plagued the 2018 Stadium Series jersey that lacked any real inspiration, or true dedication to the US Navy.

    To start off the Caps did keep the Navy base and the white shoulders, but where this jersey differs is they added a bit more to the jersey to liven it up. First they added white to the striping and they gave us a navy base for the bottom of the main jersey instead of making it all red. The white striping surround the red on the sleeves and near the bottom of the jersey looks more appealing and gives it a little more personality.

    The other thing they did was utilize an updated “W” logo, which was popular from when it was introduced as the crest for the 2015 NHL Winter Classic, instead of the lazy “Caps” wordmark that was used on the 2018 Stadium Series jersey. The logo looks fresh, and compliments the jersey nicely.

    For the back of the jersey the Caps kept the standard font that they have been using since rebranding back to the red, white, and blue/navy in 2007, but the only difference is this time they don’t have the designs in the numbers like they did for the Stadium Series.

    Overall, this is a much improved jersey from their awful 2018 Stadium Series, and will be getting sunset at the conclusion of the 2022-23 (according to reports we have read from multiple sources with knowledge on the behind the scenes dealings for NHL jerseys) for a potential new alternate jersey.

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  • NHL 3 Stars of the Month – Ovechkin Earns Top Honor with Historic December

    NHL 3 Stars of the Month – Ovechkin Earns Top Honor with Historic December

    Today the National Hockey League has announced the Stars of the Month for the month of December 2022.

    First Star – Alex Ovechkin (LW – WAS)

    • Alex Ovechkin would earn top honors after recording 13 goals and nine assists for 22 points in 15 games played. Ovechkin would record two hat tricks, with the first one getting him goal number 800 becoming the third individual in NHL history to accomplish the feat, and then the true highlight of the month would be Ovechkin surpassing Gordie Howe for second all time in goal scoring after recording goal number 802 on Dec. 23rd against the Winnipeg Jets.
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    Second Star – Connor McDavid (C – EDM)

    • Connor McDavid would record 14 goals and 17 assists for 31 points in 15 games played for the Edmonton Oilers. McDavid would record eight multi-point games, and would have one five point game and three four point games. McDavid is the first Oiler since Wayne Gretzky (March 1988) to record a 30+ point month.
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    Third Star – Tage Thompson (C – BUF)

    • Tage Thompson would record 13 goals and nine assists for 22 points in 11 games played for the Buffalo Sabres. Thompson would register points in nine of his 11 games played which would be highlighted by his five goal game against Columbus on Dec. 7th.
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  • NHL Stars of the Week – Lindgren’s Perfect for Top Honors

    NHL Stars of the Week – Lindgren’s Perfect for Top Honors

    Today the National Hockey League announced their Three Stars of the Week for the week of December 5th through 11th.

    First Star – Charlie Lindgren (G – WAS)

    • Charlie Lindgren would go a perfect 4-0-0 with a 1.50 goals against average and a .949 save percentage. To open the week Lindgren would stop 28 shots in a 3-2 victory over Edmonton on Dec. 5th, and then he would 29 saves in a 4-1 victory over Philadelphia on Dec. 7th. On Dec. 9th he would make 25 saves in another 4-1 victory, this time over Seattle. Then on Dec. 11th Lindgren would close out the week with a 29 save 5-2 victory over Winnipeg.
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    Second Star – Tage Thompson (C – BUF)

    • Tage Thompson would record five goals and two assists for seven points in three games played for the Buffalo Sabres. To open up the week Thompson would record five goals and an assist in a 9-4 victory over Columbus on Dec. 7th. Then on Dec. 9th he would record an assist in a 4-3 overtime loss to Pittsburgh, and would close out the week scoreless in a 3-1 defeat to Pittsburgh on Dec. 10th.
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    Third Star – William Nylander (RW – TOR)

    • William Nylander would record three goals and four assists for seven points in three games played for the Toronto Maple Leafs. To start the week Nylander would not record a point in a 4-0 loss to Dallas on Dec. 6th, but he would record a goal and an assist in a 5-0 victory over Los Angeles on Dec. 8th. To close out the week Nylander would record two goals and three assists in a 5-4 overtime victory over Calgary on Dec. 10th.
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    *All Graphics courtesy of the NHL, Washington Capitals, Buffalo Sabres, and Toronto Maple Leafs.

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