Capitals Prospect Surge: Vincent Iorio’s NHL Rise, Protas' Breakout & Backstrom’s Olympic Comeback?🔥

Vincent Iorio continues to develop into a reliable two-way defenseman within the Washington Capitals organization. After a solid year with the Hershey Bears in the AHL, where he logged 20 points in 67 games, Iorio finds himself in a prime spot on the depth chart following offseason departures on the right side. Despite not showcasing offensive fireworks, his skating, poise, and smart puck-moving abilities make him a dependable option for a future bottom-four NHL role. His size and vision complement his game, and as he enters the final year of his entry-level contract, he could be called upon more frequently depending on injuries or roster moves. Meanwhile, Aliaksei Protas took a massive leap in the 2024–25 season with the Capitals, posting a career-best 66 points and a stellar +40 rating. Thanks to improved skating and hockey IQ, Protas became a force on both ends of the ice, emerging as a dangerous scorer and penalty killer. His development into a complete player shows the organization’s investment in long-term talent is paying off. Additionally, longtime Capitals legend Nicklas Backstrom is eyeing a comeback in Sweden with Brynäs IF, possibly aiming for one last Olympic run. The Capitals’ prospect pool and veteran stories offer fans plenty to watch heading into 2025–26. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Gametime Today's episode is brought to you by Gametime. Download the Gametime app, create an account, and use code LOCKEDONNHL for $20 off your first purchase. Terms and conditions apply. Monarch Money Take control of your finances with Monarch Money. Use code LOCKEDONNHL at monarchmoney.com/lockedonnhl for 50% off your first year. FanDuel Today's episode is brought to you by FanDuel. Right now, new FanDuel customers can get $150 in Bonus Bets if your first $5 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.