The Washington Capitals have already made some massive additions to their lineup this offseason, bringing in Alex Tuch and Jordan Kyrou as part of a summer overhaul as they try to go all-in, but could they try to add even more forward depth?
It may not be the biggest hole they have by any means, but adding a physical bottom-six forward could be something that the Capitals take a look at doing, and one name jumps out as a potential cheap fit on a professional tryout (PTO).
Evander Kane, who played last season with the Vancouver Canucks, is still looking for a new home and may need to sign a PTO if he wants to play in the 2026-27 season.Â
Kane, who is 34 years old, scored 13 goals and added 18 assists for 31 points through 71 games last season. Throughout his career, he has scored 339 goals and added 309 assists for 648 points through 1001 games.
Kane has also played 97 career playoff games, where he has scored 32 goals and added 23 assists for 55 points.
The problem stems from Kane’s defensive game, where he lacks consistency and, at times, can be detrimental in terms of winning puck battles or having his man in coverage in the defensive zone. However, in terms of being a physical presence and a depth offensive contributor, he wouldn’t be a high-risk addition.
Evander Kane, acquired by VAN, is a shoot-first power forward who plays a simple game premised on speed, checking, and scoring. Not a strong play-driver at all and takes tons of dumb penalties. Needs to play with skilled playmaker. #Canucks pic.twitter.com/L14nbrOKRQ
— JFresh (@JFreshHockey) June 25, 2025
If Kane comes in on a PTO and is willing to take a pay cut to join the Capitals, it wouldn’t be the worst decision to bring in Kane on a one-year deal for league minimum.Â
Kane would immediately step into being a fourth-line guy with the Capitals and would have to accept being someone who might be in and out of the lineup. If that's something he is open too, there is no reason the Capitals shouldn't consider bringing him in.
