The Washington Capitals have re-signed Hendrix Lapierre to a one-year, $850,000 bridge deal — a clear signal that this is a “prove-it” season for the 23-year-old center. After starting 2024-25 on the NHL roster but struggling with only eight assists in 27 games, Lapierre rebounded in Hershey with 32 points in 32 games. GM Chris Patrick emphasized it’s up to Lapierre to earn a full-time spot, with training camp competition heating up.

Meanwhile, Connor McMichael is expected to start at center after a breakout season on the wing with 57 points. The departure of Lars Eller opens the 3C role, but it’s unclear if McMichael’s game will translate back to the middle. The Capitals are also counting on young talent — like Ivan Miroshnichenko, Andrew Cristall, and a now-healthy Sonny Milano — to step up and battle for roster spots in what’s shaping up to be one of the most competitive training camps in years.

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The Washington Capitals’ free agency plans took a turn when top target Nikolaj Ehlers chose Carolina, prompting the team to re-sign winger Anthony Beauvillier to a two-year, $5.5 million deal. Beauvillier proved versatile after arriving at the trade deadline, moving up and down the lineup and producing six points in 10 playoff games. Coach Spencer Carbery praised his fearless style, skating pace, and ability to impact all zones of the ice. The Capitals see him as a cost-effective fit who already understands their system.

Meanwhile, the spotlight at development camp has shifted to 2025 first-round pick Lynden Lakovic and promising prospects Cole Hutson and Milton Gästrin. Lakovic is adjusting quickly and eager to build a 200-foot game; Hutson, coming off a historic NCAA season, is committed to refining his defensive play before turning pro; and Gästrin, a high-IQ Swede taken 37th overall, signed his entry-level deal and will continue his development in the SHL. Together, they headline a rising crop of Caps talent with clear NHL upside.

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Welcome to the NHL Squad Show! Today our hosts Gil Martin (Locked On Islanders), Eddie Garcia (Locked On Kings, David Morassutti (Locked On Leafs) and Seth Toupal (Locked On Wild are here to talk about the big moves of free agency so far, including the Mitch Marner saga finally coming to an end, what the heck the LA Kings are doing, and where Nikolaj Ehlers is going to end up!

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