The Washington Capitals have done extremely well adding to their team this offseason, and seem poised to make a deep playoff run heading into the 2026-27 season. While they seem like potential favourites out of the Eastern Conference, they still have some room to make some additions if they choose to do so.
One thing that a lot of teams do is give out professional tryout (PTO) contracts, giving players fighting for a contract a chance at proving themselves at training camp and earning a one-year deal. One player who seems like a prime candidate for a PTO is forward Arthur Kaliyev, and the Capitals should give him a look.
Kaliyev, who is 25 years old, was tied for third in points and led the American Hockey League (AHL) in goals last season, scoring 40 goals and adding 28 assists for 68 points through 70 games. He did play two games with the Ottawa Senators last season, where he had one assist.
Throughout his NHL career, having spent time between the Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, and Senators, he has scored 38 goals and added 38 assists for 76 points through 204 games.
The Capitals don't have many holes in their bottom-six forward group, but adding someone with an offensive touch in their game to their depth chart could be a smart signing. Kaliyev wouldn't break the bank on a new contract, likely being open to accepting a league minimum contract or a two-way deal out of training camp, and would be a low-risk, high-reward addition.
Adding some organizational depth, likely to compete for the final forward spot with Ethen Frank next season, wouldn't hurt either. Having players battling internally adds competitiveness at practice and drives up the level of play during games, which would be beneficial, as it has proven to be for many teams in the past.
Kaliyev could be a smart PTO option, and the Capitals should consider bringing him in.
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