With the NHL trade deadline about two months out and a temporary roster freeze looming ahead of the Olympics, front offices across the league are starting to pick up the phone. The Washington Capitals are no exception. Speaking with reporters earlier today, GM Chris Patrick made it clear: the Caps are in the market for a top-line winger, and they’re not waiting around passively - they’re actively hunting.
This isn’t a new need for Washington. That search for a skilled winger dates back to last season, and despite efforts in both the trade market and free agency over the summer, the Capitals came up empty. Now, with the team still in the playoff mix and looking to bolster their scoring punch, Patrick is back at the table, looking to make a deal.
But here’s the challenge: the current trade landscape is thin. With the standings tightly packed and so many teams still in the hunt, there just aren’t many sellers - at least not yet. That means Patrick and his staff may have to play the waiting game, hoping the market opens up closer to the March 6th deadline.
One potential name that jumps off the page? Artemi Panarin.
The Rangers are reportedly heading toward a retool, and with no plans to re-sign Panarin, he’s expected to be on the move in the coming weeks. On paper, the fit in Washington makes a lot of sense.
Panarin brings elite offensive skill, top-line pedigree, and the kind of playmaking ability that could elevate the Capitals’ attack.
From a cap standpoint, Washington has the regular season room to take on his full $11.643 million salary. The postseason cap picture is trickier, especially if the roster is fully healthy, but if the Rangers are willing to retain some salary, the math could work. The bigger hurdle might be competition - Panarin would be one of, if not the top name on the trade block, and contending teams across the league will be lining up with offers.
Still, the Capitals are in a solid position to be patient. Despite a rash of injuries - including Pierre-Luc Dubois being out since mid-October - Washington has managed to stay productive offensively, sitting eighth in the league in goals heading into tonight’s games.
That kind of resilience gives Patrick the luxury of time. He doesn’t need to panic.
He can watch the market evolve, see which teams fall out of contention, and wait for the right opportunity to strike.
Bottom line: the Capitals know what they need, and they’re being proactive. Whether they land a big fish like Panarin or pivot to another target, expect them to be a player as the trade deadline approaches.