Washington Capitals 2025–26 Roster Locked In? Can This Core Compete?

As the Washington Capitals prepare for the 2025–26 NHL season, they return with a remarkably stable roster — all 20 NHL spots are already under contract heading into training camp. While this continuity speaks to management’s confidence, it also leaves limited room for surprises. The forward lines are mostly set, with Alex Ovechkin chasing historic milestones and Pierre-Luc Dubois poised for a full second season in D.C. after a strong debut. The key questions surround a few open winger slots, where returning veterans or young talent like Hendrix Lapierre could make their mark during camp. On defense, the Caps are locked in with seven NHL-caliber defensemen, including a newly extended Jakob Chychrun and a motivated John Carlson in the final year of his deal. Goaltending is finally stable as Logan Thompson and Charlie Lindgren form a strong tandem, while prospect Garin Bjorklund continues to develop in the system. With few roster questions and a deep, experienced core, the Capitals are betting big on internal growth and chemistry heading into a pivotal season for the franchise. (CORRECTION: Logan Thompson through 30-31) Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com for 50% off your first year. Wonderful Pistachios Get snackin' and get crackin' with the snack that packs a protein punch. Visit WonderfulPistachios.com to learn more! FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in Bonus Bets if your first FIVE DOLLAR bet wins! FANDUEL DISCLAIMER : 21+ in select states. First online real money wager only. Bonus issued as nonwithdrawable free bets that expires in 14 days. Restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.fanduel.com. Gambling Problem? Call 1-800-GAMBLER or visit FanDuel.com/RG (CO, IA, MD, MI, NJ, PA, IL, VA, WV), 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), 1-888-789-7777 or visit ccpg.org/chat (CT), 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), 1-800-522-4700 (WY, KS) or visit ksgamblinghelp.com (KS), 1-877-770-STOP (LA), 1-877-8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), TN REDLINE 1-800-889-9789 (TN) Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.