Friedman: Capitals May Have Interest In Domi, Team Still Watching Goalie Market

The Washington Capitals have a lot to consider with the 2022 NHL Trade Deadline quickly approaching, and per Sportsnet’s Elliotte Friedman, their plans may include looking into Columbus Blue Jackets forward Max Domi.

Friedman wrote in his latest 32 Thoughts that Washington may be interested in the 27-year-old forward. Meanwhile, the team continues to keep an eye on goaltenders.

“Someone who might be on Washington’s radar: Columbus’ Max Domi (Marek added Boston and Colorado could be also, which fits, too),” Friedman wrote. “Although Vitek Vanecek has played very well, the Capitals continue to monitor the goaltending market. They needed a strong week… to convince management they righted the ship.”

Friedman also added that he can see Marc-Andre Fleury wanting to finish his career with the Pittsburgh Penguins, further taking away from the possibility he could land in D.C. Ultimately, though, given Vanecek’s consistency and strong play of late, the team doesn’t necessarily have to go all-in for a big name netminder — at least in our opinion.

READ MORE ON WHN: Ovechkin Reflects On Passing Jagr, Making History As Top European NHL Goal-Scorer

Domi would be an interesting option for Washington and a strong fit. Through 51 games with Columbus this season, Domi has nine goals and 22 assists. He can play center and wing and log top-6 minutes, and he has a ton of offensive skill. He not only possesses good stickhandling ability and passing skill, but he also owns a good shot. He’s also a feisty player who can win face-offs and has worked on improving on the backcheck. With Domi, the Capitals could not only get another strong secondary scorer and potential top-6 option but a tough forward who can also serve as a power-play asset.

Still, it would be a difficult move to maneuver cap-wise. Domi carries a cap hit of $5.3 million and is an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season. While he could be a strong rental option — and potential re-signing candidate — for Washington to make a deep run, there would have to be some moves made to clear space. Anything’s possible, though.

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