Capitals Free Agent Targets: Can Bennett, Boeser, or Ekblad Make It Work in D.C.?

In this episode of Locked On Capitals, we explore three high-profile NHL free agents — Sam Bennett, Brock Boeser, and Aaron Ekblad — and evaluate how each could fit into the Washington Capitals' evolving roster. Sam Bennett brings grit, versatility, and playoff intensity to a potential third-line center role, which could complement Connor McMichael’s skillset and balance the team’s depth down the middle. Boeser would address the Capitals’ pressing need for secondary scoring, potentially becoming a top-six sniper alongside Dylan Strome or Pierre-Luc Dubois while easing pressure on aging star Alexander Ovechkin. Both forwards would require cap maneuvering, potentially prompting Washington to move mid-tier contracts or depth pieces. Meanwhile, Aaron Ekblad presents an opportunity for a true top-pairing, two-way defenseman to anchor the blue line alongside emerging talents like Rasmus Sandin and Martin Fehérváry. With John Carlson aging and Jakob Chychrun more offense-focused, Ekblad could provide the shutdown presence and leadership Washington needs to compete in the East. However, signing or trading for any of these players would likely force GM Brian MacLellan to make tough decisions, including letting go of expiring contracts or packaging draft capital. This episode maps out not just who fits where — but how Washington could actually pull it off. 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.