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Washington Capitals free agent target: Viktor Stalberg

By Dave Stevenson

May 17, 2017; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators forward Viktor Stalberg (24) takes a shot against Pittsburgh Penguins in game three of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports
May 17, 2017; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Ottawa Senators forward Viktor Stalberg (24) takes a shot against Pittsburgh Penguins in game three of the Eastern Conference Final of the 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs at Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Dan Hamilton-USA TODAY Sports /
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If the Washington Capitals look outside the organization to replace Daniel Winnik, Viktor Stalberg might be their best bet. 

The Washington Capitals fourth line was remarkably productive last season. Jay Beagle had a career year and left wing Daniel Winnik finally showed off some of his scoring talent, setting a career high with 12 goals. However, for salary cap reasons, the Caps likely can’t keep Winnik. Could Viktor Stalberg be the answer for the Caps?

Stalberg is remarkably similar to Winnik. Both have worn a lot of different sweaters. Stalberg has been in the NHL for eight seasons and has already played for six teams. He’s been bought out and traded at the trade deadline. Both are seen as defensive wings and are known more for what they prevent (goals against) than their production.

The Good

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If Barry Trotz remains as the Capitals head coach, Stalberg is someone he’s familiar with. The two crossed paths back in 2013-14 with the Nashville Predators. As mentioned earlier, Winnik and Stalberg are similar. This includes on the ice, where both like to use their speed to blow past defenses and occasionally surprise you with a goal.

Stalberg is very good at limiting scoring chances against. He’s been steadily improving in the area and has been stellar for the Ottawa Senators. If the Capitals want a cheaper version of Winnik, Stalberg could be the perfect fit. He also kills penalties.

The Bad

He shares another similarity with Winnik on the ice. Stalberg has trouble putting the puck in the net. 2016-17 is his first season with double digit goals since 2011-12, when he scored 22 goals for the Chicago Blackhawks. Stalberg also doesn’t create much with his passes in terms of goals, with just five assists during the regular season. His career high in points is 43, back in 2011-12. The next most points Stalberg has in a single season is 24.

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Why Sign Him?

There are several reasons why the Capitals should sign him. First of all, the Caps fourth line is almost exclusively deployed as a defensive line. If Washington is getting rid of Winnik, they need to add someone similar to him. Stalberg’s about as close to him as you’re going to get without re-signing Winnik.

Nathan Walker is a solid internal candidate, but he also has no experience at the NHL level. There’s also his injury history to be concerned about. Washington should look into getting some guys on the cheap as an insurance plan. Stalberg could very well be one of those guys.

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Verdict

Realistically, the Capitals might not even get the chance to sign him. Stalberg has been an excellent fit with the Senators. Guy Boucher has already grown quite fond of him. The Senators will likely keep him if his price tag is low (and it probably will be). But if Ottawa doesn’t re-sign him, Stalberg is definitely a guy the Capitals should kick the tires on.

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