Sammi’s Daily: Zegras Responds To Stecher Incident, Capitals Trade Plans?

The Washington Capitals and NHL watched a lot of action unfold on Monday with a major blockbuster trade and other headlines breaking out ahead of the NHL All-Star Break.

Here are the latest news and notes from D.C. and across the NHL:

Washington Capitals

– The Islanders made a blockbuster move as they continue to make a playoff push; what does it mean for the Capitals, and should they consider following suit with a big move? (WHN)

– General manager Brian MacLellan provided some insight into the Capitals' trade deadline plans. (WHN)

– Despite January struggles, the Capitals aren't ready to pack it in and demand more from one another as they go into the break. (WHN)

NHL

– New York made a major shakeup on Tuesday with a big trade, acquiring Bo Horvat in exchange for Anthony Beauvillier, Aatu Raty and a first-round pick. New York Islanders (NYIHN)

– Here's what Horvat had to say about the deal, and more on how he feels leaving the Vancouver Canucks and what the plan is with the Islanders. (NYIHN)

– Is Mike Sullivan not working out anymore for the Penguins, and are the players starting to tune out their head coach? Pittsburgh Penguins (PHN)

Top Shelf Takes

– Trevor Zegras responded to the Troy Stecher situation and told the OC Register that his comments were "pretty standard trash talk." And then of Stecher, "If he wants to act like that, it's totally fine." The Arizona Coyotes did clear up that the Anaheim Ducks star did not make any comments directed toward Stecher's late father but that his comments were "very inappropriate" and did cross the line.

– Not to be obvious, but Washington's Tuesday tilt with the Columbus Blue Jackets is a must-win. Going into the break with a victory is important, and considering the Jackets' woes, the Capitals should be able to come out flying and get some momentum going forward.

– Best of luck to The Washington Post's Samantha Pell in her next endeavor. Today is her last game for the Post, and she will then cover the All-Star Weekend before heading on to the next adventure. Not only is she one of the best in the industry, but an amazing person that I'll miss seeing in the press box every day.