Capitals, Predators Top NHL Offseason Winners

The Washington Capitals and Nashville Predators got top marks from ESPN after the draft.

Both teams made big moves to boost their chances for 2024. The Capitals made several trades, while the Predators signed key free agents.

Washington traded Darcy Kuemper to the Kings for Pierre Luc-Dubois, sent Nick Jensen and a future pick to Ottawa for Jakob Chychrun, and got Logan Thompson from Vegas for two third-round picks. They also signed Matt Roy, a top defenseman on the market. “Where we once thought perhaps the Capitals were headed for a full-blown rebuild, it’s clear now they’re not wasting the final years of Alex Ovechkin’s career,” wrote Clark and Shilton. “Washington is determined to stay in the playoff picture.”

Predators’ Big Moves:

Nashville made waves by signing Steven Stamkos, Jonathan Marchessault, and Brady Skjei—three of the top five free agents available. They also added Scott Wedgewood as their new backup goalie.

Fans might think these moves show how serious both teams are about winning next season.

While Washington focused on trades to strengthen their roster, Nashville went all-in on free agency. These strategies highlight different ways teams can build a contender.

What do you think about these changes?