The Washington Capitals explored free agency but faced challenges as top free agents signed with other teams. General manager Chris Patrick acknowledged interest in Nikolaj Ehlers, who ultimately signed with the Carolina Hurricanes. Patrick emphasized that Ehlers made a decision based on personal preferences rather than financial factors. The Capitals are considering trade options to enhance their roster while managing a salary cap space of approximately $5 million. The focus will include both trades during summer and potential moves after the season starts.
As July 1 approached, some big names came off the board, that would have been interesting for our group, that we were evaluating, stayed with their current teams.
It didn't come down to the money or the offer or the term or any of that. It was a player picking what he thought was the best situation both on and off the ice.
We're going to have to make sure we're diligent and strategic in our approach to both the trade market and any potential free agent signings.
We looked at free agency, and the Caps were most heavily linked with Ehlers, who chose to sign a six-year deal with the Carolina Hurricanes.
Collection
[
|
...
]