Washington Capitals hockey is fast approaching. Today we’ll look at the top players you need to keep an eye on this season. Each of these players has unique storylines and different expectations. How they perform is up to them.
Alex Ovechkin: Of course who else to start things off with than the birthday boy, the great eight himself who turned 37 today. While he needs 20 goals to get to 800, 21 to tie Gordie Howe, and 22 to pass him, the number you have to keep an eye on for him is 29. If he can score at least 29 he’ll be well on track to becoming the top NHL goal scorer of all time.
Evgeny Kuznetsov: After a strong bounce back season last year, can Kuzy keep up the consistency? A lot of eyes will be on him as the top line center and he’ll be relied on even more this season. More importantly, he has to step up in the homestretch of the season.
Dylan Strome: He’s the new kid on the block and after centering a line with Patrick Kane and Alex DeBrincat, can he elevate his game on an even better team with the Caps? The only problem is his potential line mates are no Kane or DeBrincat.
T.J. Oshie: After an injury filled season last year, can the Oshbabe bounce back? He too is getting up there in age but he still possesses good stick and puck handling skills. They certainly missed him in shootouts last year.
Darcy Kuemper: The newest goalie in Washington is a proven veteran. For once the Caps have a competent goalie in net. But with that comes high expectations after he won a Stanley Cup with the Colorado Avalanche. He’ll look to do the same over here.
Connor McMichael: Can the kid seize the center position on the third line? If he does then what happens to Lars Eller? After nine goals last year, McMichael is hungry for an even better season and hopes for more ice time.
Anthony Mantha: This might be the season where we find out who won that controversial trade between the Caps and Detroit Red Wings. Both Mantha and Jakub Vrana were hurt last year. Who outperforms the other this year?
These are the players you have to watch this upcoming season. Which one are you excited to see? Who do you have the highest expectations on? What about the lowest?