Capitals prepare for NHL Draft with key first-round picks
Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 14, 2026, 9:04 PM
Last updated Jun 14, 2026
The Washington Capitals are assessing their options ahead of the 2026 NHL Draft on June 26-27. General manager Chris Patrick aims to enhance the roster, especially with captain Alex Ovechkin considering his future and Rasmus Sandin out long-term. Washington holds the No. 16 and No. 18 picks in the upcoming draft and may trade them for immediate scoring help or retain them to bring in prospects as they plan for the post-Ovechkin era. Patrick highlighted the potential of selecting young talent such as Alexander Command or moving up for higher prospects, maintaining the team’s competitive stance after narrowly missing this year's playoff berth.
- •Capitals hold No. 16 and No. 18 picks in the 2026 NHL Draft.
- •General manager Chris Patrick seeks to improve scoring and defense.
- •Ovechkin's decision on his future remains uncertain.
- •Potential prospects include Alexander Command, Ryan Lin, and Nikita Klepov.
- •Draft scheduled for June 26-27.
- 9:04 PMYahoo Sports — Capitals Need To Make Right Call With Their First-Round Picks As They Look To Add This Offseason
"The Capitals have some interesting weeks ahead of them.
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