Trade Rumour: Washington Capitals are searching for a top 6 winger

 

Washington Capitals are in a very odd situation, on one hand, they made the playoffs (eliminated in the first round) and have a legend in Alex Ovechkin still trying to break the great ones' goal record. On the other hand, you have an aging Capitals team Ovechkin (38) Oshie (37), and Carlson (34) 

With recent deals like the Rasmus Sandin and Sonny Milano Signing, The direction seems to be finding players that are in their mid-twenties that can keep the caps somewhat completive without breaking the bank. 

Brian MacLellan, GM of the Washington Capitals had this to say- “Our goal is to have a top-six guy in the right age group, from the offseason, and our goal is still to do that,” he told reporters. “We’re still pursuing opportunities that might present that.”

Moving on with these specifications, I found two candidates that I think fit the timeline and team aspirations. 

Patrick Laine: Columbus Blue Jackets (RW)

It's no secret that Laine has struggled in his time in Ohio but we all know the potential he has and that lethal shot never goes away. His struggles might actually lower his trade value, making it easier for the Capitals to acquire him. Other than the contract that pays him $8,700,000 Mil for two more years, This pickup would be a high-risk low reward. 

Laine has a 10-team no-trade clause according to PuckPedia. 

On Dec. 8, The Athletic's Eric Duhatschek took note of Laine's somewhat indifferent play this season. He acknowledged the winger's concussion but pointed out he wasn't playing well before he got hurt. Suggesting the big Finn is lacking confidence in his game, Duhatschek wondered if a trade to the Washington Capitals as Alex Ovechkin's potential successor could help him regain his scoring ways.

Nikolaj Ehlers: Winnipeg Jets (LW)

This speedy winger will most likely cost more to get than a player like Patrick Laine but you most certainly get a more proven top-six winger. This past season the smooth-skating Danish forward put up an impressive 61 points in a full 82 games and notching 25 goals. This type of player would boost the scoring chances and be an excellent addition to Ovies' line.

Murat Ates of The Athletic reports that Ehlers is likely to be dealt soon, even as soon as the NHL Draft on June 28-29, as Winnipeg looks to free up cap space and possibly strengthen their defensive lines or acquire a coveted first-round draft pick.