Milano Ready To Prove More As He Continues Road With Capitals: ‘They Gave Me A Chance’

ARLINGTON, V.A. — A few months ago, Sonny Milano was without a team to open the regular season following a strange summer where he received little interest. Then, the Washington Capitals came knocking with a one-year, one-way "prove it" deal for $750,000, which turned into a three-year, $5.7 million extension with Milano fitting in seamlessly.

For Milano, it was the best-case scenario and a near-perfect situation that arose out of a less-than-perfect offseason.

"I think I fit in pretty well here," Milano said. "They gave me a chance when a lot of other teams didn't. Definitely grateful for that, and I think it's clicking."

Since making his season debut on Nov. 5, the 26-year-old has racked up eight goals and 14 assists for 22 points through 40 games. He has been a top, consistent contributor at 5-on-5 and is tied for third on the team in even-strength goals. The 6-0, 194-pound winger is also on pace to hit a single-season career-high of 37 points and has also found chemistry alongside Nicklas Backstrom.

"They're an older, smart group… they know where I'm going to be, I know where they're going to be, and I just think there's good chemistry," Milano said, adding, "I think you have to be able to adapt to different systems, and everything is kind of similar. It's not too hard. [Peter Laviolette] has helped me out a lot, [Blaine Forsythe] as well and it's just clicking."

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When it comes to staying on board for the next three years, Milano said a lot of it had to do with the off-ice culture and his connection with his teammates.

"I don't know why I wouldn't [like the culture], everything's been going well since I got here. I love the guys here, and I think they like me as well and everything's going well," Milano said, adding of the veteran core, "They made it super easy for me, I just fit in here right away and I love it here."

As he embarks further on his journey in D.C., Milano said he's focused on living in the moment, and his mentality doesn't change. He just wants to remain a constant, continue to produce and make an impact for his new club.

"Nothing changes. Same goal, so sticking with that," he said simply.

So, where does Milano see himself as a player three years down the road?

"Couldn't tell you. Really couldn't tell you," he smiled. "I don't know. Right now, I'm just dialed in on this year, and that's all I'm focused on."