3 Washington Capitals who might see a performance dip next season feat. Alexander Ovechkin

By Nestor Quixtan

Modified Sep 02, 2024 03:23 GMT

The Washington Capitals salvaged the season last year by making it into the playoffs. However, their postseason run ended as the Caps were swept by the New York Rangers in the first round.

Since then, the Washington Capitals have made several additions hoping to jump-start the team. But given the circumstances, there’s reason to believe that some players may see a slight regression in their performance next season.

So, here’s a look at three players that could take a step back in 2024-25.

3 Washington Capitals who might see a performance dip next season

#3: Charlie Lindgren

Overall, Lindgren had a great season. In 50 games, he posted a 2.67 GAA and a .911 SV%. That performance was convincing enough for the Washington Capitals to send Darcy Kuemper to Los Angeles in exchange for Pierre-Luc Dubois.

However, Lindgren’s career totals paint a different picture. In 2022-23, Lindgren appeared in 31 games posting a 3.05 GAA and an .899 SV%.

So, the big question is, will the Washington Capitals get the Charlie Lindgren of 2022-23 or 2023-24? Given that situation, there’s a real possibility that Lindgren’s overall numbers dip somewhere between 2023 and 2024’s totals.

#2: Tom Wilson

Wilson has become a wrecking ball for the Caps. His strong, physical style with offensive skills made him one of the most versatile players in the league.

After a tough 2022-23 season in which he only played 33 games, Wilson played in 74 last season, totaling 35 points. That performance seems to signal that Wilson is on the decline following the 2021-22 season in which he topped 20 goals and registered 52 points.

Next season, fans shouldn’t be surprised to see Wilson’s numbers dip even further, especially if he continues to rack up penalty minutes the way he has. Last season, Wilson accrued 133 PIM. Thus, such PIM totals could lead Wilson’s effectiveness to decline further.

#1: Alexander Ovechkin

At 38, Ovechkin seems to be trending downward. Last season’s 31 goals and 65 points marked a second-straight season in which his numbers fell. Given his age and the players around him, there’s a fair chance that Ovechkin’s production will drop again.

The biggest challenge for Ovechkin is staying healthy. If he can manage to play a full season, he should top 30 goals and notch 60-plus points.

However, the biggest question mark will be who plays center alongside Ovechkin. The Caps lack a true top-line center, impacting Ovechkin’s goal-scoring ability.

If the newly acquired Pierre-Luc Dubois can become that top-line center, Ovechkin’s numbers could climb. But if Dubois falters, Ovechkin may be on his own again this upcoming season.