The Washington Capitals have been officially eliminated from the NHL playoffs, marking the first time the team will not participate in the postseason since 2014. The Capitals faced numerous challenges throughout the season, including a string of injuries and significant roster changes near the trade deadline.
Injuries plagued the Capitals this year, with star defenseman John Carlson being one of the most significant casualties. Carlson played just 35 games this season, leaving a gaping hole in the team’s blue line. The Capitals also struggled between the pipes, as goaltender Charlie Lindgren started 24 games and posted a goals-against average (GAA) of 3.02 and a save percentage (SV%) of .898, both below league-average numbers.
As the team’s fortunes dwindled, the Capitals made several moves ahead of the trade deadline, parting ways with Lars Eller, Dmitry Orlov, and Garnet Hathaway. These trades further weakened the team’s depth and dashed any hopes of a late-season turnaround.
Despite the team’s overall struggles, Captain Alex Ovechkin continued to shine as he chases Wayne Gretzky’s NHL goal record. Ovechkin scored 42 goals and added 31 assists, amassing a total of 73 points in 71 games. This brings his career goal total to 822, closing in on Gretzky’s record of 894 goals.
The Capitals’ absence from the playoffs will be a significant change for the league and the team’s fanbase, which has grown accustomed to watching Ovechkin and company compete in the postseason. It also raises questions about the future direction of the franchise, as they must regroup and rebuild around their aging superstar.
