Locked On Capitals - Daily Podcast On The Washington Capitals

Washington Capitals set the stage for a dramatic new era as Alex Ovechkin—approaching 41 and just 11 goals shy of Gretzky’s record—returns for his 22nd NHL season. Can the Great Eight power another playoff run, or will this be his final chase? The blue line faces a complete overhaul after John Carlson’s departure and Rasmus Sandin’s injury, forcing newcomers like Vincent Desharnais, Cole Hutson, and Timothy Liljegren into pivotal roles.

Host Dan Holmi and guest Hockey Troll break down the Capitals’ defensive overhaul, the team’s faith in youth such as Ilya Protas and Ivan Miroshnic...

Washington Capitals shake up the NHL with bold summer trades—can Chris Patrick’s revamped roster deliver a true Stanley Cup push?

Host Dan Holmi and guest Hockey Troll break down the Capitals’ stunning offseason, as Patrick acquires Jordan Kyrou and Alex Tuch, overhauling Washington’s top six with elite speed, size, and scoring punch. The conversation spotlights the impact of parting with Connor McMichael, Boone Jenner’s arrival as a leadership and faceoff specialist, and whether Tuch’s $84 million contract is a smart gamble in today’s changing salary cap landscape

Will Kyrou and Tuch hit 40 go...

Tom Wilson is coming off arguably the best season of his NHL career after posting 30 goals, representing Team Canada at the Olympics, and cementing himself as one of Spencer Carbery's most trusted players. In today's Locked On Capitals, we break down why Wilson's impact goes far beyond the scoresheet, examine his Olympic performance, and discuss where he fits in a loaded 2026-27 Capitals lineup.

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Cole Hutson enters the 2026-27 season with enormous expectations, and the Capitals may be counting on him sooner than anyone expected. In today's episode, we break down why Hutson could become one of the most impactful rookie defensemen in the NHL, how Spencer Carbery can maximize his elite skating and offensive instincts, and why pairing him with Vincent Desharnais could unlock his full potential.

We also examine Hutson's early Calder Trophy odds, what separates his game from his brother Lane Hutson's, and why earning top-four minutes and power-play opportunities could determine whether he becomes one of the...

Washington Capitals transform their identity with bold offseason additions, introducing a balanced lineup built on speed, power, and playoff-ready depth. Can the new mix of dynamic scorers and physical presence finally push the Capitals past recent playoff letdowns and protect Alex Ovechkin for one more run at the Stanley Cup?

DAN HOLMI breaks down the Capitals revamped roster, spotlighting the arrival of Jordan Kyrou and Alex Tuch as game-changers in the top six, the versatility of Boone Jenner, and Vincent Desharnais’ stabilizing impact on the blue line. Key discussion points include how Jonny Brodzinski, Josh Dunn, and Ju...

Ethen Frank changed the conversation in Washington.

The undrafted forward went from a Hershey success story to a legitimate NHL contributor, finishing the 2025-26 season with 12 goals, 24 points, elite speed, and one of the most impressive breakout performances on the Capitals roster.

In this episode of Locked On Capitals, we break down how Frank became one of Washington's most dangerous depth scorers, why his 97th percentile skating ability makes him unique, and what his underlying numbers reveal about his offensive impact.

But the biggest question now is what comes next.

After...

The Washington Capitals made one of their biggest free-agent splashes by signing Boone Jenner to a four-year, $23 million contract—but was it the right move?

In today's episode of Locked On Capitals, we break down every angle of the deal. Why did Chris Patrick target Jenner? Why wasn't Columbus willing to match four years? Is the contract an overpay, or is Washington making the right bet while its Stanley Cup window remains open?

We'll examine Jenner's contract, his fit in the Capitals lineup, the team's remaining salary cap space, and why analysts from Daily Faceoff an...

The Washington Capitals continue to reshape their roster, adding forward Josh Dunne on a one-year contract—but what does this move really mean for Washington's Stanley Cup aspirations? On today's episode of Locked On Capitals, we break down why the Capitals targeted the 6-foot-4 center, what he brings to Spencer Carbery's system, and whether this signing is more significant than it first appears.

We dive into Dunne's NHL and AHL track record, his defensive strengths, faceoff ability, physical style of play, and the advanced analytics that explain why teams continue to give him opportunities despite limited offensive pr...

Dylan Strome just said what every Capitals fan has been thinking: it's Stanley Cup or bust. On today's Locked On Capitals, we break down why expectations have never been higher after Washington added Alex Tuch, Jordan Kyrou, Boone Jenner, and brought back Alex Ovechkin. We discuss whether this is the deepest roster of the Ovechkin era, why the pressure now shifts from management to the players, and what has to happen for the Capitals to become legitimate Stanley Cup contenders.

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Hershey Bears face a leadership crossroads as veteran defenseman Louie Belpedio emerges as a frontrunner to wear the next C. With Aaron Ness retiring after a storied tenure, can Belpedio’s steady play, locker room presence, and championship pedigree anchor a new era in Chocolate Town?

Host Dan Holmi explores Belpedio’s impact on and off the ice, from his Garland Award-winning season to his team-friendly contract that maximizes organizational value for both the Hershey Bears and Washington Capitals. The conversation spotlights other captaincy candidates like Spencer Smallman and the return possibilities of Dylan McIlrath and Johnny Brod...

Washington Capitals fans get clarity as Alex Ovechkin signals no imminent farewell—despite Dynamo Moscow dreams, his heart remains in D.C. How long will the Great Eight extend his NHL legacy? Dan Holmi breaks down Ovechkin’s candid remarks, the chase for Wayne Gretzky’s combined goals record, and how Chris Patrick’s offseason moves—like adding Jordan Kyrou and Alex Tuch—support another Stanley Cup push.

Goaltending depth sparks new dilemmas as Hunter Shepard heads to the KHL and Ben Kraus joins Hershey, leaving Clay Stevenson and Mitch Gibson in waiver limbo ahead of training camp. Plus...

Washington Capitals spark fierce competition as Jonny Brodzinski arrives—not to sell jerseys, but to battle for a roster spot. Can his veteran poise, faceoff prowess, and leadership force a shakeup, or will rising talents like Justin Sourdif, Ivan Miroshnichenko, and Andrew Cristall seize the opportunity at training camp?

Host Dan Holmi breaks down Chris Patrick’s strategy, spotlighting the importance of organizational depth and cap flexibility as the Capitals reinforce their bottom six with experienced veterans. Key topics include Brodzinski’s AHL leadership, Josh Dunne's physical style, and the crowded race for fourth-line and extra forward spots...

The Washington Capitals' 2026-27 regular season schedule is finally here, and there's much more to discuss than Opening Night. Dan Holmi breaks down why the NHL may have handed Spencer Carbery's team a golden opportunity to build momentum early before one of the toughest finishes in the league. We analyze the season opener against the defending Stanley Cup champion Carolina Hurricanes, the home opener against the Pittsburgh Penguins, the longest road trip of the season, key Metropolitan Division matchups, the return of the 84-game schedule, and why the final six weeks could determine Washington's playoff fate. Plus, a Capitals...

Washington Capitals push for one last Stanley Cup as Alex Ovechkin chases an unprecedented 1,000 career goals. With Ovechkin eyeing history and the front office refusing to rebuild, is D.C. set for a storybook ending or a bold new beginning?

Dan Holmi breaks down Chris Patrick’s offseason strategy, including the additions of Jordan Kyrou, Alex Tuch, Boone Jenner, and Vincent Desharnais to boost the Capitals’ immediate playoff hopes. The episode spotlights the delicate balance between competing now and developing young talent like Ryan Leonard and first-rounder Oliver Savanto. Key discussion points include Ovechkin’s legacy, the organi...

Washington Capitals overhaul their identity with blockbuster moves—can Chris Patrick’s aggressive strategy deliver a championship before Alex Ovechkin hangs up his skates?

Host DAN HOLMI breaks down the Capitals’ high-stakes trades for Alex Tuch and Jordan Kyrou, exploring how these dynamic additions give Washington a more versatile, difficult-to-defend offense. Dive into Tuch’s power forward presence, Kyrou’s explosive skillset, and the ripple effects on players like Tom Wilson, Ryan Leonard, and Pierre-Luc Dubois. With the salary cap “credit card” maxed out, bubble players such as Ivan Moroshnishenko and Anthony Beauvillier face a make-or-break training camp.

I...

Washington Capitals face a pivotal roster crunch as Ivan Miroshnichenko battles for a spot amid their most competitive training camp yet. Can Miro’s elite shot and AHL dominance finally earn him a permanent NHL role, or will the Caps risk losing another promising first-round pick to waivers?

Dan Holmi breaks down Miroshnichenko’s limited NHL opportunities, his chemistry with Ilya Protas and Bogdan Trineyev in Hershey, and the uphill battle created by the additions of Alex Tuch, Jordan Kyrou, and Boone Jenner. Key topics include Chris Patrick’s candid comments, the impact of the Capitals’ offseason moves, a...

Washington Capitals look to reignite their offense with the arrival of Jordan Kyrou. Can the Capitals unlock the 30-goal threat Kyrou once was, or will injury concerns linger? DAN HOLMI breaks down the nuances of Kyrou’s game and what his elite speed and scoring potential mean for Washington’s top-six. Key segments highlight Kyrou’s consistent production for the St. Louis Blues, the misunderstood “down year” caused by injury and limited ice time, and how Coach Spencer Carbery’s system could help Kyrou rebound. The episode explores potential line combinations, power play upgrades, and why Kyrou’s style fills a long-s...

The Washington Capitals shocked many fans by keeping Charlie Lindgren despite offseason trade speculation. According to recent reports, the organization believes Lindgren is a critical part of Logan Thompson's success—but is that enough to justify paying $3 million for a backup goalie coming off a down season?

On today's Locked On Capitals, Dan Holmi breaks down why Washington chose continuity over cap space, whether Lindgren's contract is becoming a concern, and what this decision means for Logan Thompson, Clay Stevenson, and the Capitals' Stanley Cup aspirations heading into the 2026-27 NHL season.

In this episode:

Did the Philadelphia Flyers just make Ryan Leonard millions of dollars? The Leo Carlsson offer sheet has sent shockwaves through the NHL, and the Washington Capitals could be one of the next teams affected.

On today's Locked On Capitals, Dan Holmi breaks down how Leo Carlsson's record-setting $18 million AAV offer sheet changes the NHL's restricted free agent market, why Ryan Leonard's contract value may have just skyrocketed, and why Elliotte Friedman believes Washington should be paying close attention.

You'll also hear a full breakdown of Leonard's impressive rookie season, his long-term projection with the Capitals...

Washington Capitals fortify their blue line with the under-the-radar signing of Justin Holl—will this unsung move be the difference-maker come playoff time? Dan Holmi examines how Holl’s veteran presence and defensive reliability could prove pivotal as the Capitals navigate injuries, especially with Rasmus Sandin sidelined and competition heating up at training camp.

Key topics include Holl’s journey from Toronto’s top-four minutes to renewed opportunity in D.C., his direct competition with Dylan McIlrath for a roster spot, and how coach Spencer Carbery’s familiarity with Holl shapes expectations for the Capitals’ defense. With smart salary...

Washington Capitals transform into Stanley Cup contenders as Alex Ovechkin rejects retirement, energized by a star-studded roster overhaul. Can this new-look team deliver one more championship run for the Great Eight?

Host Dan Holmi spotlights Chris Patrick's aggressive offseason moves, including the signings of Jordan Kyrou, Alex Tuch, Boone Jenner, Vincent Desharnais, and Justin Holl, that deepen the squad and allow Ovechkin to embrace a smarter, not heavier, role. The discussion explores how Ovechkin’s contract structure benefits team-building, the influence of family on his decision, and the impact of Spencer Carbery’s coaching philosophy. Key topics incl...

Washington Capitals bet big on grit, signing Vincent Desharnais to a four-year deal in a bold move to toughen up their blue line. Did GM Chris Patrick fix a long-standing defensive issue with this targeted addition, or is puck movement still a weakness as the team eyes another Stanley Cup push with Alex Ovechkin?

DAN HOLMI breaks down Desharnais’ fit in Spencer Carbery’s system, the implications for Cole Hutson’s offensive freedom, and how the loss of key defenders like Trevor van Riemsdyk shaped Washington’s off-season vision. The analysis covers projected pairings, the impact of penalty...

Washington Capitals shift from hope to high-stakes as Alex Ovechkin inks his contract, igniting one more legitimate run at Stanley Cup glory. Can Chris Patrick’s aggressive offseason moves—adding Boone Jenner, Jordan Kyrou, and Alex Tuch—give Ovechkin the roster he demands, or is this the dawn of a farewell tour in disguise?

Host Dan Holmi spotlights Spencer Carbery’s evolving lineup: leadership, depth, and competition are at an all-time high. Key debates include Jenner’s role as a center vs. winger, Ryan Leonard’s breakout potential, and whether the Capitals’ revamped forward corps can finally give Ovechkin...

Alex Ovechkin is officially back with the Washington Capitals after signing a one-year contract extension, and it changes everything for the 2026-27 season.

On today's Locked On Capitals, we break down Ovechkin's new contract, why Chris Patrick and the Capitals front office built this roster around one more Stanley Cup run, and how additions like Jordan Kyrou, Alex Tuch, Boone Jenner, Justin Holl, and Vincent Desharnais give Washington its deepest lineup in years.

We also discuss Ovechkin's incredible legacy as the NHL's all-time leading goal scorer, his impact on hockey in Washington, and why this...

Washington Capitals signal a shift in identity with the headline signing of Boone Jenner, prioritizing leadership and structure over flashy offense. Boone Jenner joins as third-line center on a four-year, $5.75M AAV deal, bringing over 800 NHL games of grit, consistency, and durability to a team intent on becoming harder to play against. Is this the missing piece for a Capitals playoff resurgence?

Dan Holmi breaks down how Jenner’s physical presence and faceoff reliability fit into Washington’s new philosophy, while assessing the arrivals of Vincent Desharnais, Justin Holl, and Johnny Brodzinski as moves to stabilize the blue...

Washington Capitals weigh bold moves as cap space and blue line uncertainty define free agency. Is trading Charlie Lindgren the key to unlocking a top-pair defenseman, or will the front office stick with stability over upside? Decisions loom as Rasmus Sandin’s ACL injury clouds roster planning, Trevor van Riemsdyk’s future hangs in balance, and Alex Ovechkin’s next contract overshadows every move.

Host Dan Holmi breaks down the pressing questions facing Chris Patrick, comparing Lindgren’s performance to rising prospect Clay Stevenson and debating Brandon Duhaime’s role against team needs. The conversation explores how recent add...

The future of the Washington Capitals officially hits the ice this week. General manager Chris Patrick made headlines by revealing that Ilya Protas is already penciled into Washington's NHL center group for next season. After dominating the AHL and winning Rookie of the Year honors, Protas appears ready to make the jump full-time, giving the Capitals a young and intriguing center core heading into training camp.

Development camp also opens at MedStar Capitals Iceplex, providing fans their first look at the organization's newest prospects. First-round pick Oliver Suvanto takes the ice in a Capitals jersey for the...

Washington Capitals gear up for a pivotal offseason as Chris Patrick crafts a bold plan around Alex Ovechkin’s anticipated return. With trades finalized and the draft behind them, the Capitals turn their focus to free agency, armed with $14.1 million in cap space and urgent needs on the right side of the blue line. Could Rasmus Andersson or Jacob Trouba be the answer to their defensive woes, especially with Rasmus Sandin sidelined by injury?

Host Dan Holmi breaks down the franchise’s shifting priorities—highlighting potential moves for Boone Jenner at third-line center and discussing the futures of Bra...

Washington Capitals set the stage for a new era by drafting Oliver Savanto and aggressively targeting key prospects. Is this the blueprint for a future contender in the post-Ovechkin years?

Ryan Leonard highlights the Capitals’ commitment to rebuilding their core, focusing on size, center depth, and NHL-ready habits with the selections of Savanto and Tyus Sparks—whose elite shot and unique Idaho hockey journey turned heads. Insightful breakdowns of prospects Brian McFadden and Logan Stewart reveal the organization’s strategy for long-term success and asset management. With bold trades bringing in Jordan Kyrou, Alex Tuch, and a clear...

The Washington Capitals selected Finnish center Oliver Suvanto with the 18th overall pick in the 2026 NHL Draft, and this pick says a lot about the direction of the franchise. On today's Locked On Capitals, we break down Suvanto's game, why scouts compare him to Aleksander Barkov, what his NHL ceiling could be, and why Washington believes he fits perfectly into Spencer Carbery's system.

I also discuss Suvanto's strengths, areas he still needs to develop, his experience playing in Finland's Liiga against professional competition, and how he fits into the Capitals' long-term plans alongside Ryan Leonard, Ilya Protas...

With the eighteenth overall pick of the 2026 NHL Draft, the Washington Capitals select Oliver Suvanto of Tappara Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See https://pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Washington Capitals signal a bold win-now approach as Alex Ovechkin gears up for another run, embracing a potentially reduced role for the sake of team success. With Head Coach Spencer Carbery confirming Ovi’s enthusiasm and willingness to sacrifice personal ice time, the Capitals are reshaping their offensive core around key additions like Jordan Kyrou, Alex Tuch, and rising star Ryan Leonard.

Host DAN HOLMI breaks down the emotional trades of Connor McMichael to the St. Louis Blues, Hendrix Lapierre to the Pittsburgh Penguins, and Declan Chisholm to the New Jersey Devils. Are the Capitals sacrificing future po...

Washington Capitals ignite the NHL offseason with blockbuster trades, landing Alex Tuch and Jordan Kyrou to transform their top-six and signal an all-in push. With GM Chris Patrick swinging big, the renewed roster puts pressure on Alex Ovechkin to decide his future—can these high-powered moves convince the franchise icon to return for one more run?

Dan Holme breaks down Tuch’s eight-year, $84 million deal and Kyrou’s arrival from the St. Louis Blues, analyzing how size, speed, and elite scoring overhaul Washington’s offense. Key themes include the Capitals’ strategy shift, potential line combinations featuring players like Tom W...

The Washington Capitals have made another massive offseason splash, acquiring Alex Tuch from the Buffalo Sabres in a blockbuster sign-and-trade deal. Chris Patrick isn't waiting around, adding one of the NHL's premier two-way wingers just one day after landing Jordan Kyrou.

On today's Locked On Capitals, Dan Holmi breaks down what Alex Tuch brings to Washington, why Spencer Carbery will love this addition, and whether the reported 8-year, $10.5 million AAV contract is worth the price.

Plus, has Chris Patrick officially pushed all of his chips to the center of the table? Are the Capitals now...

Washington Capitals land elite winger Jordan Kyrou in a blockbuster trade, signaling an aggressive push to reshape their offensive identity. Did Chris Patrick pay too steep a price for immediate success, or is this the move that reignites the Capitals’ Stanley Cup window?

DAN HOLMI breaks down Kyrou’s arrival and what it means for the Capitals’ top six, analyzing the departures of Connor McMichael, Milton Gastrine, and the 16th overall draft pick. Key topics include Kyrou’s dynamic playmaking, lingering questions about Alex Ovechkin’s future, and the team’s ongoing need for right-side defense and center depth...

Washington Capitals reveal bold draft blueprint as Ross Mahoney tips off a shift toward bigger centers and defensemen. With two first-round picks for the first time since 2012, can the Capitals redefine their future and build a new winning core around names like Ryan Leonard, Andrew Cristall, and rising prospects?

DAN HOLMI breaks down how Ross Mahoney’s candid comments signal a clear organizational strategy, spotlighting top draft targets Keaton Wirhoff, Carson Krells, Juho Pepperinen, and Ilya Morozov. The show also covers Spencer Carberry’s major contract extension—making him one of the NHL’s highest-paid coaches—and what it me...

Washington Capitals eye game-changing blue line upgrade—can they land Bowen Byram for the next era of Capitals hockey? NHL trade rumors swirl as Byram’s breakout season and looming contract demands put a massive target on the Sabres defenseman, with Washington facing tough choices on roster shuffling and cap strategy.

Host Dan Holmi breaks down Byram’s fit beside Matt Roy or Jakob Chychrun, the Capitals’ post-Ovechkin timeline, and potential trade chips like Connor McMichael and Ivan Miroshnichenko. The episode spotlights Buffalo’s sky-high asking price, the Darren Farris agent factor, and the ripple effect if John Carls...

Washington Capitals face franchise-defining questions as Alex Ovechkin’s future hangs in the balance. Will Chris Patrick make the bold moves needed to keep the NHL’s all-time greatest goal scorer in D.C., or could Ovechkin truly test the free agent waters—or even skate in a different NHL sweater for the first time?

DAN HOLMI breaks down Ovechkin’s contract expiration, his candid public comments, and the high-stakes challenge facing Capitals management. Key insights include potential trade targets, the power play’s structural overhaul, and how the team has quietly prepared for life after “the Great Eight...

Washington Capitals lock in their next era with a multi-year extension for head coach Spencer Carbery. As Alex Ovechkin’s legendary career nears its twilight and John Carlson explores free agency, Carbery’s return eliminates offseason uncertainty and sets the foundation for the franchise’s future.

DAN HOLMI spotlights Carbery’s unprecedented coaching résumé—including Coach of the Year honors at the ECHL, AHL, and NHL levels—and analyzes how his player development strategies have fast-tracked the growth of Capitals standouts like Alexei Protas and Connor McMichael. With the Capitals poised to leverage significant cap space and organizati...

Washington Capitals could swing for a John Carlson reunion as playoff hopes intensify. Is bringing back the franchise icon the key to stabilizing the blue line, or will escalating contract demands force Chris Patrick to look elsewhere?

Host Dan Holmi breaks down the Capitals’ urgent offseason questions, spotlighting Carlson’s value in the open market, Brandon Duhaime’s future after Nick Dowd’s departure, and pivotal NHL Draft strategies with two first-round picks at stake. Insights on the Capitals’ cap space flexibility, the need for elite right-shot defensemen, and lineup uncertainties for Alex Ovechkin and Tom Wilson fuel the c...