Why the Capitals’ New Depth Moves Could Be a Game Changer for 2025-26!

The Washington Capitals made targeted offseason moves to bolster their depth on defense and forward. Defenseman Declan Chisholm arrives from Minnesota as a reliable, NHL-ready option who can step in immediately and challenge for ice time, adding mobility and solid puck-moving to the blue line. Meanwhile, the Capitals traded for forward Justin Sourdif from Florida, banking on his high motor, playoff pedigree, and 200-foot game to solidify their bottom-six forward group. Both players fit the team’s push for more depth, flexibility, and youth in a competitive Metropolitan Division. Additionally, Washington signed veteran Louie Belpedio to a two-way deal to provide further blue-line insurance. Known for his leadership, physicality, and ability to step in when needed, Belpedio strengthens the organizational depth after last season’s defensive injuries exposed weaknesses. These strategic moves signal GM Chris Patrick’s commitment to ensuring the Capitals are better prepared for the grind of an 82-game season and beyond. Support Us By Supporting Our Sponsors! Indeed Now, you can speed up your hiring process with a $75 Sponsored Job Credit. Just go to Indeed.com/LOCKEDON right now and support our show by saying you heard about Indeed on this podcast. Terms and conditions apply. 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.