James Guillory/USA Today
After an impressive performance in the first round of 2017 Stanley Cup Playoffs, Capitals right wing Tom Wilson seemed to have begun to turn his career around after beginning it as a fourth-line player through his first three seasons. Now in his fourth full season in the NHL and currently the team’s top-line right wing, Wilson is proving he can be the player the Caps envisioned him being when they drafted him 16th overall in 2012.
In the seven games since promoted to the top-line, Wilson has recorded six points, including a two-goal, two-assist performance in the Capitals’ 6-2 win over the Chicago Blackhawks last night. His performance against Chicago proved he can be a key contributor offensively while still playing with the physical edge that has seemingly defined his career to this point.
Wilson now has four goals and nine assists for 13 points in 25 games played, this after missing the first four games of the season due to a suspension. He is currently on pace for a career-high 13 goals, 29 assists, and 42 points, which would surpass his previous career-high of 23 points by 19. When the Capitals drafted him with the 16th overall pick in 2012, they envisioned him playing a similar role as veteran NHLer Milan Lucic. And so far this season, Wilson is proving he is capable of doing just that.
By Michael Fleetwood
Pingback: The Capitals are Hitting Their Stride In December, But Improvements Can Still Be Made in the New Year | NoVa Caps
Pingback: Capitals Wrap Up Homestand Against the Rangers | NoVa Caps
Wilson’s the man. Hopefully he continues to play like this, good article.
Pingback: Evaluating the Capitals’ Homestand: A Potential Turning Point? | NoVa Caps
Tom Wilson is a beast on the ice. He’s smart and knows when to put the pressure on to help Backy and Ovi score. Keep it up #43! You definitely make the game more exciting to watch! Nice article.
Pingback: Game Preview: Capitals @ Islanders | NoVa Caps
Pingback: Retro Recap: Panthers Top Capitals in Record-Setting Shootout | NoVa Caps
Pingback: Capitals Continue Roadtrip in Arizona | NoVa Caps
Pingback: Evaluating the Capitals’ Pending Free Agents | NoVa Caps
Pingback: Tom Wilson is Having His Best Season in Washington | NoVa Caps
Pingback: Tom Wilson Raising His Game in the Playoffs Again | NoVa Caps
Pingback: Tom Wilson Wants To Stay Out Of the Penalty Box More, But That Doesn’t Mean He Won’t Still Be Physical Presence For Capitals | NoVa Caps