June 23, 2025
Why the Capitals Are Still Underrated + Todd Nelson Leaves Hershey
Locked On Capitals - Daily Podcast On The Washington CapitalsAbout this episode
Despite finishing first in the Eastern Conference with 50 wins in the 2024–25 season, the Washington Capitals are getting little respect from sportsbooks heading into the 2026 Stanley Cup race. Both BetMGM and FanDuel list the Caps with +2800 odds—12th-best overall—and behind teams they outperformed last season, like the Maple Leafs, Lightning, and Devils. BetMGM favors Edmonton (+650) while FanDuel gives the edge to Carolina (+700). The Capitals are also pegged as only the third-most likely to win the Metropolitan Division, despite finishing well ahead of their division rivals. Meanwhile, Hershey Bears head coach Todd Nelson departs after three dominant AHL seasons—including two Calder Cups—to join the Pittsburgh Penguins as an assistant. His exit leaves a coaching vacancy in Hershey and a legacy of strong development for Caps prospects. Additionally, defenseman Ethan Bear, who led Hershey defensemen in points but never cracked the Capitals’ 2024–25 lineup, has been given permission to speak with other teams ahead of free agency, potentially signaling a fresh start elsewhere. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Rugiet Head to Rugiet.com/LOCKEDONNHL and use code LOCKEDONNHL to get 15% off today. 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. 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 $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.