Capitals Takes
Why Capitals Traded Orlov & Hathaway To Bruins
The Washington Capitals shook things up in a big way as they traded Dmitry Orlov and Garnet Hathaway to the Boston Bruins. Here’s why they made the move.
WASHINGTON — Just minutes before warmups for their Thursday night meeting with the Anaheim Ducks, the Washington Capitals shook the hockey world and shipped defenseman Dmitry Orlov and forward Garnet Hathaway to the Boston Bruins in exchange for Craig Smith and a plethora of draft picks just eight days before the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline.
General manager Brian MacLellan thanked Orlov and Hathaway for their contributions to the organization and would go on to explain the reasoning for the deal.
"We would like to thank Dmitry and Garnet for their contributions to our organization,” MacLellan said. “Dmitry has been with our organization for almost 14 years and was a key contributor in helping us win the Stanley Cup in 2018. Garnet has been an important part of our team and a role model off the ice for his contributions to our community. We wish both players all the best with Boston.
"This trade allows us to acquire draft capital, infuse youth and restock our system. While this season has proven challenging with injuries to our significant players, we are in a position to use some of our current assets to retool our club and build a competitive team moving forward."
WASHINGTON CAPITALS TRADE NEWS: Orlov 'In Shock' Over Trade
Washington's Thursday trade is a strong indicator of what route the team is taking at the deadline: selling. The Capitals are still very much in the playoff race, with the team sitting just one point behind the Pittsburgh Penguins for the second Wild Card spot. There will also likely be a need to add some more help on the blue line, as losing Orlov and having John Carlson the long-term injured reserve in the thick of the playoff push is a major loss.
Bringing in Smith, meanwhile, gives the team another option at forward. The 33-year-old is a versatile depth player and another veteran presence who can play well at both ends of the ice.
There is still time to make moves with the deadline not until March 3 at 3 p.m., and given the deals made before puck drop, don't be surprised if more news comes out of D.C.
Capitals are Betting Dark Horses to Make Playoffs
The Most Underrated Players in The Capitals’ History
Capitals Dropped By Sharks; Power Play Again Goes Goalless
Capitals Slaughtered By Oilers; 5-Game Win Streak Snapped
GOTTA SEE IT: Oshie, Gourde Drop The Gloves After Huge Hit
GOTTA SEE IT: Ovechkin Breaks Gretzky’s All-Time Road Goals Record
GOTTA SEE IT: McMichael Scores Beautiful First Goal For Hershey
