Why the Capitals’ splashy trades make Alex Ovechkin’s return more likely - The New York Times
The Washington Capitals have made significant roster changes through recent trades, which may influence Alex Ovechkin’s decision regarding his return for a 22nd NHL season. Ovechkin, currently in Moscow, has yet to confirm his intentions to play again, though he previously hinted at continuing his career. Before his departure, he conveyed to the Capitals’ management, including owner Ted Leonsis, president of hockey operations Brian MacLellan, and general manager Chris Patrick, his interest in the team’s plans to upgrade the roster.
In a span of two days, the Capitals acquired Alex Tuch and Jordan Kyrou. Tuch, a left wing, was obtained via a sign-and-trade with Buffalo and is set to earn a team-high $10.5 million annually for eight seasons. He has recorded 30 goals in three of the last four years. Kyrou, a right wing, arrived in a trade from the St. Louis Blues and has five years remaining on his contract, valued at $40.625 million. Kyrou also has three 30-goal seasons in his last four years. These additions are expected to bolster the team’s top two lines.
Despite these acquisitions, the Capitals reportedly still possess approximately $12.7 million in cap space, allowing for potential further moves, possibly to acquire a defenceman in free agency. This financial flexibility and aggressive roster building suggest a “win-now” approach by the team. Leonsis indicated that Ovechkin’s decision-making process is thoughtful and involves considering the team’s efforts to improve through drafts, trades, and free agency.
Roster adjustments and Ovechkin’s potential role
The new additions create a competitive lineup. The top six forwards could include Pierre-Luc Dubois and Dylan Strome at centre, Aliaksei Protas and Tuch on left wing, and Kyrou and Tom Wilson on right wing. This restructured forward group suggests that if Ovechkin, who will be 41 in September, returns, his role might shift to a third line, potentially alongside Ilya Protas at centre and Justin Sourdif on the opposite wing. This would leave coach Spencer Carbery and his staff to determine the best fit for up-and-comer Ryan Leonard.
Carbery previously managed Ovechkin’s ice time effectively last season, where the veteran averaged a career-low 17 minutes and 27 seconds. Ovechkin led the Capitals in goals with 32 and points with 64 during the 2025-26 season. The team’s management appears to be preparing for the playoffs, which could make returning more appealing for Ovechkin, even if it means adjusting his minutes.
Off-season moves and future outlook
The Capitals’ front office proceeded with these significant moves without a definitive commitment from Ovechkin. The increased NHL salary cap and expiring contracts provided the team with room to manoeuvre regardless of Ovechkin’s decision. According to reports, the Capitals have been actively seeking to enhance their offence, having previously pursued Nikolaj Ehlers and Artemi Panarin.
The trade for Kyrou involved sending forward Connor McMichael, prospect Milton Gastrin, and the 16th overall pick to the Blues. For Tuch, the Capitals sent a third-round pick and centre David Kampf to Buffalo. Washington still holds the 18th overall pick in the upcoming draft, which was acquired from the Anaheim Ducks. The NHL draft is scheduled for Friday and Saturday, with free agency commencing on July 1. Defenceman Rasmus Sandin is expected to miss the start of the season due to knee surgery, indicating a potential need for a new defenceman.
Source: nytimes.com
