24 hours after the Capitals Stanley Cup victory parade, Washington Capitals GM Brian MacLellan spoke to the media.
MacLellan spoke on a variety of team items in his press conference. He touched on the statuses of various players that are unrestricted and restricted free agents. He also spoke about the organizational goaltending that includes Philipp Grubauer and Ilya Samsonov. In addition to player statuses, he touched on Barry Trotz’s future with the club.
Here is what MacLellan had to say on John Carlson and Michal Kempny:
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Brian MacLellan speaking to media now. Already has said the team wants Trotz, Carlson and Kempny back. Carlson’s representation and MacLellan had previously agreed to table extension talks to after season. #Capitals
— Adam Zielonka (@Adam_Zielonka) June 13, 2018
It appears that talks with Carlson will ramp up, as he is likely the Capitals top free agent priority in the offseason. MacLellan also mentioned that he wants to re-sign restricted free agent Tom Wilson.
Here is what MacLellan had to say about Barry Trotz’s future:
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MacLellan on trying to get new contract done with Trotz:
“We’re going to try. I talked to Barry this morning. I’ll talk to ownership over the next week or so and we’ll continue to discuss everything and see where it goes.”
— Tom Gulitti (@TomGulittiNHL) June 13, 2018
It appears that both sides are interested in getting a new deal done. Trotz’s price tag will likely go up, as his contract runs out on July 1. MacLellan also hinted that restrictions on other coaches on Trotz’s staff will not be held back from interviewing with other clubs.
Here is what MacLellan had to say on the Capitals organizational goaltending plans:
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MacLellan said Grubauer wants to be a No. 1 goaltender. He’d like to keep him and Holtby, but he’s going to explore a trade for Grubauer to do his thing.
— Isabelle Khurshudyan (@ikhurshudyan) June 13, 2018
It appears that Philipp Grubauer could be moved during the offseason, since he desires to become a #1 goaltender somewhere. If that does happen, Phoenix Copley will likely become the Capitals new backup netminder behind Braden Holtby.
BUSY OFFSEASON AHEAD FOR THE CAPITALS GM
Brian MacLellan has his hands full over the next few weeks. The Capitals GM will have to work on extensions for current players, and may need to make some deals in order to remain salary cap compliant.
While there is little clarity right now, the NHL Draft will provide more answers to the Capitals future plans.
By: George Foussekis
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