Brian Maclellan's promise to Alex Ovechkin. Nic Dowd's importance to the Caps. A preview of the next round of the NHL playoffs

The Washington Capitals secured a spot in the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs with 91 points but were swiftly eliminated by the New York Rangers. Alex Ovechkin's 31 goals were crucial in the team's return to the postseason, but he didn't register a point against the Rangers. The team is undergoing a significant transformation, with emerging talents such as Ryan Leonard, Hendrix Lapierre, and Connor McMichael. However, their strategic direction may not fully embrace the future until Ovechkin retires. During a discussion on Daily Faceoff Live, it was highlighted that the team aims to remain competitive while adopting a sustainable approach. They intend to revamp the defensive lineup and focus on fortifying the defensive core to sustain long-term competitiveness. Additionally, the text discusses the performances of Nic Dowd and his recognition as a strong defensive forward. It also provides insights into the strategies and key players of teams in the Stanley Cup Playoffs, including the New York Rangers, Florida Panthers, Dallas Stars, and Edmonton Oilers. Overall, the text covers the Washington Capitals' postseason, their future plans, Nic Dowd's performance, and updates on various teams in the Stanley Cup Playoffs. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed There is no “I” in “team.” But there is one in “Indeed” and that’s the hiring platform you need to build yours. When you’re hiring, you need Indeed.Claim your SEVENTY-FIVE DOLLAR CREDIT now at Indeed.com/LOCKEDON . Terms and conditions apply. Need to hire? You need Indeed. Policygenius Check life insurance off your to do list in no time with Policygenius. Head to policygenius.com/lockedonnhl to get your free life insurance quotes and see how much you could save. eBay Motors For parts that fit, head to eBay Motors and look for the green check. Stay in the game with eBay Guaranteed Fit at eBayMotos.com . Let’s ride. eBay Guaranteed Fit only available to US customers. Eligible items only. Exclusions apply. Gametime Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms apply. FanDuel FanDuel, America’s Number One Sportsbook. Right now, NEW customers get ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY DOLLARS in BONUS BETS with any winning GUARANTEED That’s A HUNDRED AND FIFTY BUCKS – with any winning FIVE DOLLAR BET! Visit FanDuel.com/LOCKEDON to get started. 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.