After missing the Stanley Cup Playoffs in 2023 for the first time in eight years, the Washington Capitals executed a sharp retooling of their roster instead of undergoing a full rebuild. Their front office was active over the past two offseasons, making numerous moves that led to back-to-back Metropolitan Division titles.
Key additions such as defenseman Jakob Chychrun, forward Pierre-Luc Dubois, and goaltender Logan Thompson quickly brought Washington back into the Stanley Cup conversation. However, despite the improved roster, the team has fallen short of a championship in each of the last two playoff runs.
This offseason, the Capitals remained aggressive in their win-now strategy, taking a big swing in free agency. Reports indicate they were the runner-up in the pursuit of star winger Nikolaj Ehlers, who ultimately signed with the Carolina Hurricanes. After missing out on the top free agent, general manager Chris Patrick hinted the team would now explore the trade market for reinforcements.
Three Trade Targets for the Capitals Ahead of the 2025–26 Season
Washington’s most pressing need is depth at wing—a major reason Patrick pushed hard for Ehlers to support Alex Ovechkin offensively. The team could also benefit from a dependable defenseman to solidify its top pairings.
Several Capitals players are likely to become trade assets as the season progresses. Forwards like Sonny Milano and defenseman Trevor van Riemsdyk are both on expiring contracts and unlikely to return in 2026, meaning the team should seek value for them now. Washington also holds considerable draft capital that could help facilitate a trade.
1. Trade for Jordan Kyrou (St. Louis Blues)
Packaging a veteran like Milano (29), along with a future second-round pick and potentially a prospect, might be enough to interest St. Louis in a deal for Kyrou. While his no-trade clause went into effect on July 1, Washington could be an appealing destination for the 27-year-old, especially if they’re aiming for a deep playoff run. The Blues are likely to demand a strong return for their second-leading scorer from last season (70 points), but the investment may be worth it for the Capitals.
2. Trade for Bowen Byram (Buffalo Sabres)
Washington’s defense continues to raise concerns, particularly with John Carlson aging and declining in his own zone. Bowen Byram, 24, is among the most highly regarded young blueliners reportedly available. After a career-best 38-point season in 2024–25, his arbitration case in Buffalo has left his future uncertain, as he could opt for a short-term deal and test free agency. If the Sabres find the right offer, they may be open to moving him—and Washington has the assets to make it work.
3. Trade for Rasmus Andersson (Calgary Flames)
To acquire Andersson, Patrick might have to combine valuable draft picks with a player like van Riemsdyk, which could drive up the cost. Given the team’s limited cap flexibility, the Capitals would need to offload a contract or delay the rise of younger defensemen to make room. While Andersson reportedly prefers a move to the Vegas Golden Knights, Washington could still make a compelling case if negotiations with Byram fall apart. The 28-year-old has one year left on his current deal, and talks with Calgary about an extension haven’t been productive.
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