Capitals Rookie Camp: Krebs, Rybinksi, Persson Shine On Day 2

ARLINGTON, V.A. — The Washington Capitals rookie camp picked up in speed on Day 2, as players got more involved in rushes and shooting as they get further acclimated with the speed of camp.

While Friday consisted of some 2-on-1 drills and a mini scrimmage in the neutral zone, Saturday saw things pick up. Players weaved through cones and worked on incorporating the defense into the rush. There was also more emphasis on shooting, getting to the front for tips and rebounds and making quick decisions on the fly.

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There were also quite a few players who established themselves on Day 2.

Dru Krebs was one of them. The 2021 sixth-rounder got involved in the forecheck and unleashed his rocket of a shot, and also showcased his strong skating ability and speed. He was good on his edges and looked strong on the transition. Coming off a rough season in Medicine Hat, Krebs is looking to bounce back and have a better season after getting an offer to extend his NHL rights in June.

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Forwards Henrik Rybinski and Ludwig Persson also looked strong out there. Rybinski was moving his feet and has improved in the skating department, and was also front and center and serving in more of a leadership role. The ex-Panthers forward had a career year in the WHL with the Seattle Thunderbirds that saw him dish a career-high 21 goals and 44 assists for 65 points in 47 games. He inked an entry-level deal with Washington back in March, which begins this season.

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Meanwhile, Persson also looked strong out there and showcased his quick shot and vision. He’s also an excellent skater who can bring a lot of firepower to the table. The 2022 third-rounder is also coming off a breakout year in the Swedish Jr. League with Frolunda, where he had 25 goals and 36 assists for 61 points in 41 games. He also got 10 games up with Frolunda HC in the Swedish Hockey League, the highest-tier of pro hockey in the nation.

Here are some other takeaways:

• Garin Bjorklund and Clay Stevenson looked sharp out there, coming up with some impressive saves.
• Hendrix Lapierre probably looks the most NHL-ready out of the whole group.
• Two of the best shots I’ve seen so far: Vincent Iorio and Haakon Hanelt. Hanelt owns a laser beam of a shot, and he also got some pointers this morning as well.
• Benton Maass is showing that he can bring a lot to the table as he prepares to make a statement in Hershey this season.