SJS:

1

WPG:

2

3rd

00:33

EDM:

3

BUF:

2

3rd

00:30

CGY:

2

DAL:

2

2nd

04:18

OTT:

0

CHI:

2

2nd

18:00

NSH:

0

VAN:

0

10:30 ET

WSH:

0

LAK:

0

10:30 ET

Capitals Could Shop Forward At Trade Deadline

The Capitals have been a strong team this season, as they have been able to weather the injury storm all season long. Thanks to their ability to win games, they find themselves fourth in the Metropolitan Division and first in the Eastern Conference Wild Card race. The Capitals are once again looking to make a playoff run and will be buyers at the March 3rd trade deadline.

The Capitals have forward depth meaning there is an odd man out since the return of forwards Nicklas Backstrom and Tom Wilson. Even though they have returned both players, they are still dealing with injuries to their blueline and need to address the issue ahead of the deadline. Defenseman John Carlson is sidelined indefinitely and will be reevaluated toward the end of March. This is bad news for Washington, as being down your top defenseman is never an easy task to overcome. The Capitals have been linked to a number of different defensemen over the last few weeks. None of the players they have been linked to will come cheap, so moving on from a player with a high cap hit appears to be necessary.

That player that has been brought up the most is forward Anthony Mantha, as he has failed to step up and produce since coming to the nation’s capital from Detroit two seasons ago in a trade.

The Capitals paid a lot for Mantha in 2020-21, but the return has not been worth the cost as he hasn’t been able to produce as he did during his days in Detroit. He scored at least 24 goals and 48 points in back-to-back seasons before almost becoming a point-per-game player in 2019-20. In 95 games since being acquired by the Capitals, Mantha has scored just 22 goals and 54 points.

Moving on from Mantha would not be a bad idea or a loss, as he’s been made a healthy scratch as of late due to his low production. It is time for a change of scenery for the 28-year-old who hasn’t recorded a goal since December 31st. While he is the most logical for the Capitals to move on from, it may be tough to find a trade partner considering his $5.7 million cap hit and one year left on his deal. The Capitals may be required to add an asset to the trade package to get a deal done.

No matter what happens, the Capitals must make moves ahead of or at the March 3rd trade deadline if they want to make a deep playoff run.

Trade Deadline Eve – Cue’ the Duck Boats Pod

Episode 54 is here and the boys break down the Bruins adding Tyler Bertuzzi, Taylor Hall and Nick Foligno Injury updates, and Pastrnaks contract extension. Followed up with a tour around the NHL and breaking down the MOUNTAIN of trades that happened since last episode.DraftKings Sportsbook – Boston’s hometown Sportsbook will be LIVE – soon – right here in Massachusetts! Bet local on all your favorite sports from the comfort of your own home with DraftKings. To celebrate, ALL new customers will receive up to TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS bets when you sign up for DraftKings Sportsbook using code insidetherink! Soon you’ll be able to bet local on money lines, spreads, props, and more with one of America’s top-rated Sportsbooks – DraftKings Sportsbook!  Download the DraftKings Sportsbook app and sign up with code ITR to get up to TWO HUNDRED DOLLARS in BONUS bets to use once mobile sports betting hits Massachusetts. That’s code insidetherink only at DraftKings Sportsbook.  If you or a loved one is experiencing problems with gambling, call (800) 327-5050 or visit (https://helplinema.org/) to speak with a trained specialist free and confidentially twenty four seven. 21+. Physically present in MA. Eligibility restrictions apply. Subject to regulatory licensing requirements. Eligibility and deposit restrictions apply. Opt in required. Bonus issued as free bets. Terms at draftkings.com/ma.
  1. Trade Deadline Eve
  2. Donny Deals Strikes Again
  3. Trade Winds are Swirling
  4. Interview w/Bruins' Jack Ahcan
  5. Half Way There

Kevin Santangelo

Co Host of Cue' the Duck Boats Podcast Writer for Inside the Rink

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