Connect with us

Washington Capitals

Weekend Wrap: Capitals News, Kadri’s Epic Exit From Avs Chat, Trade Talk

Published

on

Capitals forward Tom Wilson with Nazem Kadri

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals have been busy going into training camp, with the rookies and top prospects taking the ice over the weekend for some action and on-ice work. However, the season is finally here, and informal skates will come to a stop with camp and the preseason officially ringing in the 2022-23 campaign.

Meanwhile, across the NHL, other prospects are making a statement, including Juraj Slafkovsky, as rookies take part in the showcase in Buffalo. But, beyond the freshmen, some clubs are also making finishing touches on their rosters and working the phones.

Here are all the latest news and notes from a busy weekend in D.C. and across the NHL:

Washington Capitals

  • Alexander Suzdalev discussed where he gets his quick hands, growing up in Russia and Sweden, being a Washington fan, playing with Connor Bedard and more in an exclusive 1-on-1. (WHN)
  • Henrik Rybinski, Ludwig Persson and Dru Krebs made themselves noticeable on Day 2 of Capitals rookie camp this weekend. (WHN)
  • Hendrix Lapierre and Vincent Iorio, meanwhile, stole the show on Day 3. (WHN)
  • Haakon Hanelt can at times be his own worst enemy, but his best friends in fellow prospects Lapierre and Iorio have helped him find confidence in D.C. (WHN)

NHL

  • Nazem Kadri left the Avalanche group chat in an epic way, and Nathan MacKinnon told all about his mic drop after signing in Calgary. Calgary Flames (CHN)
  • The Canadiens may not be done this offseason, as GM Kent Hughes is reportedly calling around to potentially add more pieces. Montreal Canadiens (MHN)
  • After an eye injury forced an early retirement, Johnny Boychuk is back on the ice and playing a big role for the Islanders’ youth. New York Islanders (NYIHN)
  • David Pastrnak put all rumors to rest and assured everyone he wants to remain in Boston as he contract expires next year. Boston Bruins (BHN)

Sammi’s Top Shelf Takes

  • It’s been awesome to be back at the rink. Looking forward to Year 2 of coverage.
  • Chatted with Clay Stevenson after Day 3 of rookie camp. When asked about facing Alex Ovechkin’s shot, he laughed: “It’s an Alex Ovechkin shot. I don’t know what else to say.”
  • Seeing Juraj Slafkovsky play in the rookie showcase has been interesting. There are some who have been critical of his mistakes and a so-so performance against the Ottawa Senators. However, in my opinion, Montreal made the right call, and those mistakes will get better with more playing time and experience. He’s had some impressive highlights from the tournament so far. This is probably my favorite moment:

  • Hershey Bears fans are going to love Iorio next season. He has looked absolutely solid, and it looks like his junior days are well behind him.