Friedman: Capitals May Still Push For Fleury Or Other Goalie At Trade Deadline, Looking At Forwards

As the 2022 NHL Trade Deadline rapidly approaches, the Washington Capitals continue to find themselves at the center of quite a bit of speculation when it comes to their situation between the pipes. And although they’re happy with Vitek Vanecek, they still may make one last push for a netminder.

In his latest 32 Thoughts podcast, Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman previewed the trade deadline and what each franchise is looking to add. And per Friedman and recently reported by TFP, the Capitals are looking to add some pieces.

“I think they’re going to add,” Friedman said on the show, adding, “They’re happy with Vanecek. I still think they’re going to try to add Fleury or another goalie.”

Fleury’s name has come up in connection with Washington over the last few months, with reports indicating that the Capitals have pushed for the 2021 Vezina winner. However, there was also speculation that the former Pittsburgh Penguins star may not want to play for his longtime rival, who he also lost the 2018 Stanley Cup Final too. Friedman did recently report, though, that Fleury‘s no-trade list is “irrelevant” and if he feels he can win, he will go to another contender to make a run for his fourth ring.

READ MORE ON WHN: Capitals Reportedly Looking To Add Depth At 2022 NHL Trade Deadline

In addition to netminders, Friedman also said there’s a possibility that the Capitals could add a depth forward. Friedman said that the Capitals had been interested in Calle Jarnkrok, who ended up going to the Calgary Flames, as well as keeping an eye on Max Domi. Another name mentioned was Nashville Predators forward Austin Watson, as there’s a potentially strong fit there.

“That’s another guy that fits Washington’s mod: a tough forward. And also, there’s a [Peter] Laviolette connection there,” Friedman mentioned.

In the end, Friedman believes the Capitals will be busy and making calls. GM Brian MacLellan said a few weeks that Washington may not be as aggressive as it has been in the past given the team’s struggles and lack of identity as a contender. However, a recent turnaround that has seen the Capitals go 6-0-1 over their last seven games may have shifted his thinking.

“I do think they’re going to try to add another forward and potential goalie. So I think they’re going to be active,” Friedman noted.

The 2022 NHL Trade Deadline is Monday at 3 p.m. ET.