The Washington Capitals escaped Newark with a gutsy overtime win against the New Jersey Devils, and it was anything but pretty. Fresh off a holiday break, the Caps looked rusty, spent long stretches chasing the game, and leaned heavily on Logan Thompson’s 35-save performance to survive early chaos. Aliaksei Protas provided a spark with a buzzer-beater at the end of the first period and a three-point night, while Jakob Chychrun capped the effort with a dramatic end-to-end overtime winner. This episode breaks down why wins like this matter more than style points, how Washington stayed composed after a brutal third-period collapse, and why belief is quietly becoming this team’s biggest strength. Alex Ovechkin also reminded everyone why he still defines this franchise. Ending a nine-game goal drought, Ovechkin scored the tying goal in regulation and added another chapter to his historic age-40 season, proving he doesn’t need to dominate shifts to dominate moments. The show also shifts to a powerful off-ice story, discussing Capitals prospect Cole Hutson’s frightening injury at the World Juniors and what it revealed about leadership, resilience, and the human side of player development. From clutch goals to emotional perspective, this episode captures why the Capitals’ momentum feels real — and why it’s traveling with them. SUPPORT OUR SPONSORS: Caps, Wizards, and Commanders fans, if you’re looking to catch a game or live event in the DC area, SeatGeek has you covered as the best ticket app to shop smart, rate every deal, and sit where it matters, and right now Caps MinuteCast listeners get $20 off your first purchase over $50 when you use the code MINUTECAST at checkout, that’s MINUTECAST for 20 dollars off so you can score the seats and skip the hassle. https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek And podcast fans, if you’re searching for a delicious, high-protein snack, Righteous Felon is the move, a family-owned brand serving premium, pasture-raised Black Angus beef that’s hormone and antibiotic free, loaded with bold flavors like O.G. Hickory and 10 grams of protein per serving, plus keto-friendly and gluten-free options while supporting sustainability through the Conservation Alliance, and you can snack smarter by using promo code MINUTECAST for 15% off at righteousfelon.com and grab your new favorite snack today. https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals rallied from a 2–0 deficit to beat the Toronto Maple Leafs 4–2, powered by another clutch goal from red-hot defenseman Jakob Chychrun. His late one-timer extended his streak and sealed a statement win for a Capitals team showing real resilience. Connor McMichael and Anthony Beauvillier delivered key goals to swing momentum, while Tom Wilson’s empty-netter closed out a performance that showcased Washington’s depth, structure, and growing confidence. Make your life easier with SeatGeek, the ticket app that rates every deal so you always know you’re getting great value. �� Get $20 off your first ticket purchase over $50 when you use promo code MINUTECAST. �� Just download the SeatGeek app or hit the link in the show notes and plug in MINUTECAST at checkout—your seat starts here. ��https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeekLooking for a tasty, high-protein snack? Righteous Felon delivers premium, pasture-raised Black Angus beef jerky with bold flavors and around 10 grams of protein per serving. �� They offer keto-friendly and gluten-free options and support sustainability through partnerships like the Conservation Alliance. � Our holiday sale is live, and your unique promo code gets you 20% off the entire site—perfect for stocking stuffers, biltong, jerky, and meat sticks under the tree. www.righteousfelon.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals suffered a tough loss when young defenseman Vincent Iorio was claimed off waivers by the San Jose Sharks, leaving fans and analysts questioning the team’s roster management strategy. Once considered a key piece of the Capitals’ defensive future, Iorio’s departure highlights the risks of a crowded blue line and the tough choices facing Washington’s front office. Host Dan Holmi breaks down what led to this decision, why the Capitals exposed Iorio instead of veteran Dylan McIlrath, and how the move could impact the team’s long-term defensive depth. In this episode of the Caps Minutecast, Dan dives deep into the implications of losing Iorio, analyzing what it says about the organization’s development philosophy and the balance between veteran reliability and youth potential. From roster crunches to waiver wire gambles, this episode explores how the Capitals’ management might learn from this misstep — and what they’ll need to do next to keep their blue line strong and their future intact. Nats fans — or Caps, Wizards, Commanders fans... Looking to catch a game or live event in the DC area? Check out SeatGeek — the best ticket app that lets you shop smart, rate every deal, and sit where it matters. And here’s the kicker — SeatGeek is giving Talk Nats listeners $20 off your first purchase over $50. Just use the code: MINUTECAST at checkout. Again, that’s MINUTECAST — for 20 dollars off. Score the seats. Skip the hassle. https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the Washington Capitals gear up for their season opener against the Boston Bruins, the defense is finally settling into shape. Matt Roy and Declan Chisholm both returned to full practice, giving head coach Spencer Carbery a huge boost just in time for puck drop. Roy’s return solidifies the top four, reuniting him with Rasmus Sandin — a pairing that drove possession and created scoring chances last year. Chisholm’s recovery from a skate cut adds reliable puck movement and depth to the third pair, restoring confidence across the back end. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals are closing out training camp with confidence — and a few lingering questions. Hendrix Lapierre is pushing hard to make the roster, Logan Thompson has taken control of the crease, and key injuries to Matt Roy and Dylan McIlrath could influence final lineup decisions. In this episode of Caps MinuteCast Dan Holmi breaks down the biggest camp storylines — from standout performances and roster pressure to what these trends mean heading into the regular season. Check out SeatGeek — the best ticket app that lets you shop smart, rate every deal, and sit where it matters. And here’s the kicker — SeatGeek is giving Talk Nats listeners $20 off your first purchase over $50. Just use the code: MINUTECAST at checkout. Again, that’s MINUTECAST — for 20 dollars off. Score the seats. Skip the hassle. https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals are making tough roster decisions as training camp winds down. With preseason cuts piling up and a long list of waiver-eligible players at risk, the battle for roster spots has never been tighter. Rising young talents like Andrew Cristall, Hendrix Lapierre, and Vincent Iorio are putting pressure on veterans and bubble players alike, while the team also weighs the goaltending logjam between Logan Thompson, Charlie Lindgren, and Clay Stevenson. We break down the latest moves, including Lynden Lakovic being sent back to juniors, Spencer Smallman and Calle Rosen hitting waivers, and what the Capitals’ expected lineup could look like on opening night. In this episode of the Caps Minutecast Podcast, host Dan Holmi dives deep into Washington’s biggest preseason storylines. From Cristall’s highlight-reel goal in Hershey to Iorio’s physical transformation, we analyze which young players are ready to force their way onto the roster. Plus, we discuss the uncertainty surrounding veteran defenseman John Carlson’s future, how the Capitals can balance youth development with competing for a playoff spot, and what to watch as the team prepares for their October 8 season opener against the Boston Bruins. Nats fans — or Caps, Wizards, Commanders fans...Looking to catch a game or live event in the DC area?Check out SeatGeek — the best ticket app that lets you shop smart, rate every deal, and sit where it matters.And here’s the kicker — SeatGeek is giving Talk Nats listeners $20 off your first purchase over $50.Just use the code: MINUTECAST at checkout.Again, that’s MINUTECAST — for 20 dollars off.Score the seats. Skip the hassle.https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals are hitting the ice ahead of training camp, and the early informal skates at MedStar Iceplex are already setting the tone for the season. Veterans like Alex Ovechkin, Tom Wilson, Dylan Strome, and Pierre-Luc Dubois are pushing the pace, while newcomer Justin Sourdif is turning heads with his versatility and proven scoring touch from the AHL. These competitive sessions are more than just warmups — they’re raising the bar across the roster and giving coach Spencer Carbery a closer look at who’s ready to contribute from day one. Beyond the veterans, the spotlight is also on the next generation of Capitals talent. First-round pick Lynden Lakovic continues to show upside with his size and two-way game, while Andrew Cristall’s elite scoring touch and improved skating could make him the breakout story of camp. With roster battles heating up in the middle and bottom six, and special teams roles still up for grabs, Washington fans can expect a fascinating blend of veteran leadership and youthful competition shaping the Capitals’ 2025 season. Nats fans — or Caps, Wizards, Commanders fans...Looking to catch a game or live event in the DC area?Check out SeatGeek — the best ticket app that lets you shop smart, rate every deal, and sit where it matters.And here’s the kicker — SeatGeek is giving Talk Nats listeners $20 off your first purchase over $50.Just use the code: MINUTECAST at checkout.Again, that’s MINUTECAST — for 20 dollars off.Score the seats. Skip the hassle.https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeek Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals are heading into training camp with a major focus on youth, as GM Chris Patrick looks to give prospects a real chance to earn roster spots. Players like Ivan Miroshnichenko, Hendrix Lapierre, and Andrew Cristall headline a growing wave of young talent competing for ice time, while veterans such as Connor McMichael are preparing for bigger roles in the 2025–26 season. With roster flexibility and open competition on the horizon, the Capitals are betting on development and internal growth rather than quick veteran signings. One of the biggest storylines centers around Ryan Leonard, who enters his true rookie year with renewed confidence after spending the offseason building strength and sharpening his skating and shot. Leonard is determined to earn a spot on the opening-night roster and play with more freedom after a timid debut last season. Alongside Leonard, McMichael, Ilya Protas, and other young Capitals are making noise in informal skates, setting the stage for one of the most competitive camps in recent team history. Washington Capitals fans will be watching closely to see if the team’s youth movement can spark long-term Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alex Ovechkin turns 40 as the Washington Capitals open training camp, and with the final year of his five-year contract set to begin, the big question is whether this will be his last NHL season. After breaking Wayne Gretzky’s all-time goals record last season, Ovechkin now sits at 897 career goals and is just three shy of becoming the first player in league history to hit 900. Despite missing 16 games with a fractured fibula, he still scored 44 goals and proved he can still dominate. While general manager Chris Patrick says the team will let Ovechkin decide his future on his own timeline, speculation continues to swirl about whether the legendary captain will retire or push forward for another run. The playoff disappointment against Carolina may fuel Ovechkin’s motivation to return strong, and with milestones like 1,500 games and a top-10 spot on the all-time points list within reach, there are still records to chase. Ovechkin has hinted before about finishing his career in Russia with Dynamo Moscow, but for now, his focus remains on winning another Stanley Cup with Washington. Whether this season is the last chapter or not, Capitals fans should savor every game from the greatest goal scorer in NHL history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals showcased their physical dominance in a crucial playoff game against the Montreal Canadiens, led by Tom Wilson's impactful performance. From the moment the puck dropped, the Caps made it clear they were ready to play tough, with Wilson landing significant hits, including a notable open-ice collision with Alexandre Carrier. Despite a lackluster power play, which saw them struggle to convert on over eight minutes of advantage time, the Caps leaned into their aggressive style, successfully rattling the Canadiens and making crucial plays when it mattered most.With their top lines faltering, the Capitals’ depth players rose to the occasion, exemplified by Brandon Duhaime's game-tying goal and Andrew Mangiapane's eventual game-winner. The Caps displayed resilience against the Canadiens’ power play, managing to secure a 5–2 victory and taking a commanding 3–1 series lead. As they return home for Game 5, the Capitals aim to capitalize on their momentum and close out the series in front of their fans.Ready to snack smarter? Use the promo code MINUTECAST to get 15% off your Righteous Felon order! Visit https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST today and grab your new favorite snack!Get $20 off your first ticket purchase at http://seatgeek.com with promo code MINUTECAST! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the Caps Minutecast! In today’s episode, we recap Game 2 where the Washington Capitals triumphed over the Montreal Canadiens with a convincing 3-1 win. A key highlight was Logan Thompson’s stellar performance in goal, particularly his crucial saves during the tense third period, including denying a breakaway. After a shaky start that saw the Caps fall behind 1-0, they quickly responded with Connor McMichael leveling the score and Dylan Strome netting the go-ahead goal, showcasing the team's resilience and offensive depth.Additionally, Anthony Beauvillier and Ryan Leonard stood out in this matchup, with Beauvillier impressing with a strong assist and Leonard contributing valuable plays while earning his first NHL playoff point. On defense, Alex Alexeyev made significant contributions, solidifying the blue line. The Capitals maintained aggressive pressure throughout the game, with McMichael sealing the victory with an empty-net goal.Later Dan talks about what to expect from the Habs in game 3 in Montreal Stay tuned for more updates and analysis as we continue to support our Caps on their playoff journey!Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (NATS AND CAPS tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com Crush your New Life resolution with Righteous Felon Jerky 15% off with promo: MINUTECAST https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As the playoffs approach, the Canadiens find themselves in a challenging position, finishing 5th in the Atlantic Division. In contrast, the Washington Capitals are motivated to add another Stanley Cup to Alex Ovechkin's legacy before he retires. After a strong turnaround from last season's last-place finish, they won the Eastern Conference and Metro Division this year but enter the playoffs with a mixed record of 4-7-0 in their last eleven games, raising concerns about their consistency. The Capitals boast a physically dominant roster, featuring players like Tom Wilson and McIlrath, which could give them an edge over the Canadiens.Key players to watch for the Capitals include Logan Thompson, who is expected to return from injury, and backup Charlie Lindgren, who has performed well in his absence. The potential return of Protas, the team's third-highest scorer, is also crucial. Meanwhile, Dylan Strome's impressive 82-point season and Ovechkin's 44 goals highlight the offensive threats Washington poses. With multiple players showcasing offensive depth, the Capitals aim to leverage their strengths against the Canadiens, especially considering their last playoff encounter in 2010 ended with an unexpected elimination for Washington.Ready to snack smarter? Use the promo code MINUTECAST to get 15% off your Righteous Felon order! Visit https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST today and grab your new favorite snack!Get $20 off your first ticket purchase at http://seatgeek.com with promo code MINUTECAST! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals are gearing up for the Stanley Cup Playoffs as the number one seed in the Eastern Conference, and there’s excitement building around the team. However, crucial health updates have emerged regarding key players, particularly star goaltender Logan Thompson and forward Aliaksei Protas. Both players are currently listed as questionable for Game One, which raises concerns among fans, even as Head Coach Spencer Carbery remains optimistic about their progress.Despite the injury uncertainty, there’s still hope for the Capitals as neither player has been ruled out for the opening series. If Thompson and Protas can return to around 80% health, their contributions could play a vital role in the team's pursuit of a championship. As the playoffs approach, the team’s potential to contend for the Stanley Cup in 2025, along with the quest for a second championship for Alex Ovechkin, adds an exciting layer to the postseason journey.Ready to snack smarter? Use the promo code MINUTECAST to get 15% off your Righteous Felon order! Visit https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST today and grab your new favorite snack! Get $20 off your first ticket purchase at http://seatgeek.com with promo code MINUTECAST! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals have signed forward Ryan Leonard to a three-year, entry-level contract, effective immediately, which has an average annual value of $950,000 and extends through the 2026-27 season. Leonard, who was drafted eighth overall in the 2023 NHL Draft, is set to make his NHL debut against the Boston Bruins. At just 20 years old, he brings significant energy to the Capitals, who are focused on the Stanley Cup Playoffs. His impressive collegiate career at Boston College saw him record 60 points in his freshman year and lead the NCAA with 30 goals in his second season, earning him multiple accolades, including recognition as the Hockey East Player of the Year.Leonard has also made a mark internationally, helping Team USA secure gold at the IIHF World Junior Championships in both of the last two years and was named MVP this past January. He has a connection to the number 9, which he wore during his time at Boston College and with Team USA, possibly influenced by his brother, John Leonard, who also wore that number in college. Head coach Spencer Carbery has been following Leonard's progress closely and remains supportive as Leonard navigates the challenges following his team's recent loss in the NCAA Tournament.Use code MINUTECAST - $20 off your first SeatGeek order:https://seatgeek.onelink.me/RrnK/teamseatgeekCrush your New Life resolution with Righteous Felon Jerky 15% off with promo: MINUTECAST https://www.righteousfelon.com/?ref=MINUTECAST Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we dive deep into the Capitals' electrifying performance as they sit atop the Metro Division and tie for the best team in the NHL! Join us as we celebrate Tom Wilson being named the NHL's Third Star of the Week, after he racked up seven points in just four games. The Capitals have officially eclipsed their previous season's points total, now boasting an impressive 92 points with a record of 42 wins, 14 losses, and 8 overtime losses!We'll shine a spotlight on Connor McMichael, who delivered the game-winning goal in his milestone 100th career NHL game. Plus, we’ll touch on Alex Ovechkin's historic achievements as he reaches 886 career goals and becomes the 11th player in NHL history to hit 1,600 career points!Charlie Lindgren's stellar performance in net was crucial to the Capitals' success, and we highlight Dylan Strome's milestone goal during his 500th career game, as well as Martin Fehervary setting a new personal best in points this season. Tune in for a recap of the physicality that defined the game, with Tom Wilson leading the charge and setting the tone for the Capitals in an intense showdown. It’s an exciting time to be a Caps fan, and we’ve got all the highlights covered in this episode! Don’t miss it!Use code MINUTECAST - $20 off your first SeatGeek order: http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In an exhilarating matchup, the Capitals secured a 5-4 overtime victory against the New York Islanders, highlighted by Jakob Chychrun's game-winning goal, extending his impressive point streak. Tom Wilson netted two goals, breaking his scoring drought, while Connor McMichael contributed three assists, showcasing his playmaking skills. Despite a goal being overturned in the second period, the Capitals responded resiliently in the third with goals from Dylan Strome and Wilson to tie the game. The power play continues to thrive in Alex Ovechkin's absence, and head coach Spencer Carbery's adjustments have fostered team chemistry, further demonstrating the Capitals’ depth and determination this season.Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order:  http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals are entering November on a positive note after finishing October with a solid 7-2-0 record, including recent victories over the New York Rangers and Montreal Canadiens. Unfortunately, defenseman Jakob Chychrun has been placed on injured reserve due to an upper-body injury, while Matt Roy remains sidelined with a lower-body injury, although both are making progress. In their absence, Vincent Iorio has been recalled from the AHL to potentially fill in. The Capitals are set to host the Columbus Blue Jackets this weekend, who are looking to bounce back from a recent loss and have had a surprising start to the season. Washington's offense has notably improved, with players like Dylan Strome, Alex Ovechkin, and Connor McMichael contributing significantly to a higher goal average than last season.Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order:  http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Washington Capitals are set to take on the New York Rangers, hoping for a better outcome than last season's sweep. The lineup will see Mike Sgarbossa take over as third-line center due to Hendrix Lapierre being a healthy scratch after struggling without a point in his first seven games. Coach Spencer Carbery believes this break will help Lapierre reset mentally. Other than these changes, the forward lines and defensive pairings remain unchanged, with Sonny Milano and Alex Alexeyev also scratched. Logan Thompson is starting in goal, continuing the rotation with Charlie Lindgren. Additionally, Matt Roy will sit out his seventh consecutive game due to a lower-body injury but is making progress, participating in morning skate in a non-contact jersey.Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order:  http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pierre-Luc Dubois has had a significant positive impact on the Washington Capitals early in the season, both in terms of individual performance and team dynamics. His effective play as a second-line center, coupled with strong contributions from other players like Tom Wilson, has helped elevate the team's overall performance. Additionally, Dubois is building strong relationships with his teammates and demonstrating a commitment to improving and integrating into his new team. As a result, the Capitals are showing promising signs of competitiveness as the season progresses.Use code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (Caps, Commanders and Wizards tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

-Ovechkin outlook-Osh and Backy-PLD first line center-Does Vrana have what it takes-Long term answers in netUse code MINUTECAST – $20 off your first SeatGeek order: (Caps, Commanders  tickets, comedy theater music and so much more) http://www.seatgeek.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices