Capitals Face Big Decisions This Offseason | Carlson, Backstrom & Beauvillier Updates

The Washington Capitals are entering a pivotal offseason marked by key decisions surrounding veteran defenseman John Carlson, who has one year left on his contract. While he remains a vital part of the team’s core, general manager Chris Patrick indicated that no extension is imminent, citing the franchise’s shift toward a younger roster and the desire to evaluate how things evolve next season. Carlson, 35, still logs significant minutes and had a strong regular season, but his postseason performance showed signs of decline. With prospects like Vincent Iorio waiting in the wings, the team must strike a balance between honoring veteran contributions and creating opportunities for emerging talent. Meanwhile, longtime center Nicklas Backstrom appears to be closing the book on his NHL career, reportedly preparing for a return to his roots with Swedish club Brynäs. Having spent the 2024–25 season on long-term injured reserve due to complications from hip surgery, Backstrom’s quiet departure underscores the end of an era for the franchise. He leaves behind a legacy of over 1,100 games and 1,000 points — including a Stanley Cup in 2018 — and will almost certainly have his number retired in Washington. On a different note, trade deadline acquisition Anthony Beauvillier is hoping to extend his stay in D.C. after a solid playoff showing. His versatility and locker-room fit make him a candidate for re-signing, though the Caps must weigh his projected cost against their limited cap space and growing prospect pipeline. 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.