Sammi’s Daily: Capitals Future & Free Agency, Can Avalanche Secure Cup?

The Washington Capitals will see one of the members of their 2018 Cup-winning team in Andre Burakovsky have another chance at hoisting the Stanley Cup on Friday, as the Colorado Avalanche can win the title if they defeat the back-to-back champion Tampa Bay Lightning at Ball Arena in Game 5.

Potential Washington free-agent target Nazem Kadri secured a 3-2 overtime victory in Game 4 at Amalie Arena, moving the Avalanche within one win of their first Stanley Cup since 2001. They would be the first Western Conference team since 2019 (St. Louis Blues) to hoist the Cup. Meanwhile, Tampa will look to stay alive after a rough Game 4 that saw Jon Cooper slam the officials — and then apologize — after a debatable too many men non-call on the winning goal.

Beyond the Stanley Cup, trade talk and free agency rumors continue to brew across the league. Here are the latest news and notes from D.C. and across the NHL:

Capitals Links

• Alex Ovechkin signed a one-match deal with FC Dynamo and will play as a striker on Saturday. (WHN)
• This Capitals offseason will be difficult, but next summer may be even tougher. (WHN)
• Take a look back at Trevor van Riemsdyk’s 2021-22 campaign and what’s next for the blueliner. (Japers’ Rink)

NHL Links

• As the Avalanche go for the Stanley Cup, here’s a look at their legacy. (CHN)
• Paul Maurice had his introductory press conference, and here’s what he hopes to accomplish with the Florida Panthers (FHN+)
• Patrice Bergeron will reportedly return to the Boston Bruins after all. (BHN)

Sammi’s Top Shelf Takes

• If the Avalanche win I’m picking Cale Makar as my Conn Smythe winner. He has been outstanding and a key part of Colorado’s blue line and success at both ends of the ice.
• Speaking of the Avalanche, if I’m the Capitals, Darcy Kuemper and Nazem Kadri are two pending UFAs I’d go all-in for.
• As Trotz watch continues, I’m starting to think Barry to Winnipeg is the next step.