The Washington Capitals will need to add some players who can score this offseason, as they head into the 2026-27 campaign without knowing for sure if Alex Ovechkin is going to hang up his skates. If he chooses to retire, they will need to find someone who can replace his production.
Insert Detroit Red Wings' forward Alex DeBrincat, who has been a solid offensive contributor since he got into the NHL, and continues to be someone teams can trust to score in big moments.
In a recent article from Sammi Silber of The Hockey News, it was suggested that the Capitals could look at targeting him if they want to add a goalscorer. In the article, Silber mentions a report from The Fourth Period's David Pagnotta, who claims Larkin's trade request could have an impact on DeBrincat's future as the Red Wings look at more potential moves.
In the article, Silber writes: "DeBrincat would be a strong addition to a Capitals roster preparing for the post-Alex Ovechkin era. He can play either wing but thrives on the left side, which opens up his one-timer. He can also help with turning the power play around, and also be a major asset in 3-on-3 overtime and the shootout, areas where Washington left quite a few points on the table this past season."
DeBrincat, who is 28 years old, scored 41 goals and added 44 assists for 85 points thorugh 82 games last season. Throughout his career, he has scored 294 goals and added 301 assists for 595 points through 696 games.
DeBrincat is entering the final season of his current contract, which was a four-year deal that has a $7,875,000 cap hit. He does have a 16-team no-trade list, but if the Capitals are a team he would be interested in joining, they should have no issues giving up assets to add a player of his caliber.
