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Should the Washington Capitals Make a Move at the Trade Deadline?

By Barry Leonard Jr.

Dec 23, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson (74) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first period at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports
Dec 23, 2016; Washington, DC, USA; Washington Capitals defenseman John Carlson (74) celebrates with teammates after scoring a goal against the Tampa Bay Lightning in the first period at Verizon Center. The Capitals won 4-0. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports /
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Should the Washington Capitals make a move at the trade deadline?

With the calendar turning to February, the NHL trade deadline is just a month away. That day marks a chance for teams in contention to pick up an extra piece or two, while allowing teams out of contention to gather resources for the future. The Washington Capitals are playing some of the best hockey of anyone, so should they look to make move?

As it stands now, the Capitals are fortunate to be healthy for the most part (Justin Williams missed the last game with a groin injury). However, that can change in an instant. Adding depth for the playoffs could help to offset any injuries that occur.

Making a roster move in the middle of the season can be a tricky one. While it can often pay off, it could also upset team balance and chemistry. The Capitals are playing complete hockey at the moment and are getting production from everywhere.

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All four lines have been producing, as have the defensemen. When looking at the current roster, is there any area that really needs an upgrade? The lines are currently gelling and seem to have great chemistry with each other.

Lack of depth has been a big issue for the Capitals when it comes to the postseason. However, that issue seems to have been taken care of. Lars Eller has proven to be a legitimate third-line center, and Jay Beagle has done an excellent job playing on the fourth line and anywhere else where needed.

Brett Connolly, Andre Burakovsky, and Daniel Winnik have all been big contributors as well.

It may sound odd to say, but Washington doesn’t really have a glaring need at this point. The Caps are solid up and down the lineup.

The trade deadline is not until March 1, so there’s still a lot that could happen. But, as it stands now, it doesn’t appear that the Capitals need to make move.

Let us know what you think — should the Capitals make a move at the trade deadline? Voice your opinion in the comments section below.

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