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Washington Capitals news: Happy birthday Evgeny Kuznetsov, free agency

By Dave Stevenson

Apr 27, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov (92) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third period in game one of the second round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Penguins won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Apr 27, 2017; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals center Evgeny Kuznetsov (92) celebrates after scoring a goal against the Pittsburgh Penguins in the third period in game one of the second round of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Verizon Center. The Penguins won 3-2. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Wishing Evgeny Kuznetsov a happy birthday, Nicklas Backstrom continues to impress at the IIHF Worlds, free agency draws closer and more in today’s Washington Capitals news and links. 

Though the Washington Capitals offseason is barely a week old, there’s still a lot of stuff going on around the Caps universe. Team Russia, led by Evgeny Kuznetsov and Dmitry Orlov, advanced further in the IIHF Worlds with a 3-0 win over the Czech Republic, setting up a semifinals matchup against Canada. Meanwhile, Nicklas Backstrom’s excellent season continues, as he picked up a goal to help Sweden beat Switzerland 3-1. His team now faces Finland in the semifinals.

There’s also a lot of talk about free agency. This shouldn’t be a surprise, as the Capitals have plenty of key players who don’t have a contract for next season. Here’s today’s array of news and links about the Capitals and from around the NHL.

Capitals News From FanSided

More from Capitals News

The Caps probably won’t trade Alex Ovechkin. But if they do, here are the five best fits. (Stars And Sticks)

Catching up with prospect Connor Hobbs, who had a career season and possesses a very unique upside. (Stars And Sticks)

The expansion draft is noted for having shenanigans and hilarious things occur. And the Capitals have been a part of it. (Stars And Sticks)

Capitals News From Around The Web

This might come as a huge surprise, but a Carolina Hurricanes blogger would like his team to acquire arguably the best goal scorer of all-time. (The Hockey Writers)

For the first time in his career, Karl Alzner will get to experience what it’s like to be a free agent. (CSN Mid-Atlantic)

"The Capitals are all Alzner has known as a professional hockey player. He was drafted fifth overall by the team in 2007. Now he’s slated to become an unrestricted free agent for the first time."

Here are some highlights as Kuznetsov and Orlov chipped in to help Russia shut out the Czech Republic. (NoVa Caps)

Nicklas Backstrom is finally finding his voice in the locker room. (Japers Rink)

"At 29, Backstrom is now the sixth-oldest forward on the team… And perhaps at the realization, Backstrom became a bit more assured that his voice had meaning."

Speaking of the Swedish center, his goal helped his team advance to the semifinals at the IIHF Worlds. (RMNB)

Would T.J. Oshie be a good fit for the Edmonton Oilers? (Oil On Whyte)

In case you’ve ever wanted to drink bourbon, smoke cigars and wear a monocle with Capitals alumni while supporting a good cause, here you go. (Capitals)

NHL News

The Anaheim Ducks beat the Nashville Predators 3-2 in overtime after losing a 2-0 lead late. This ties the Western Conference Finals at two games a piece. Friday night will see the Ottawa Senators take on the Pittsburgh Penguins with the former having a 2-1 lead in the Eastern Conference Finals.

Next: Top 30 players in franchise history

Finally, let’s all wish Kuznetsov a very happy 25th birthday! They grow up so fast.

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