Entering his first season as a Capital, Radko Gudas is expected to be a physical presence on the Caps’ backend. He commented on a myriad of topics, like reuniting with former teammate in the Tampa system, Richard Panik, and the change in his normal uniform number. Gudas will be wearing number 33 since Nick Jensen currently wears Gudas’ preferred number 3.

Gudas also mentioned that fellow Caps’ newcomer Richard Panik is someone who can carry his line and has a good shot. Panik will be extremely important to the Caps’ success this season, as he’ll be expected to provide offense and a solid two-way game on the third line with Eller and Hagelin.

Gudas joked about how awful it was to play against the Capitals in the past, and his main goal is to contribute as much as he can on the ice. He commented that he didn’t see a spike of time on ice in Philadelphia, and mentioned that he was one of the oldest defensemen on the Flyers last season. Gudas is entering his eighth year in the NHL, and will turn 30 next June. 

Gudas also noted that he’ll need to make some adjustments to his game to fit into the Caps’ system, but noted that his overall game fits well. 

He joked that he’s been on DoPS’s radar for the past six years, and noted that he’s adjusted his game last season to ensure he’s on the ice more than the press box. 

Radko Gudas addresses the media for the first time as a Capital #CapsMediaDay pic.twitter.com/pkDRr7KXO8

— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) September 12, 2019

Gudas felt welcomed by the team and felt like he’s already been a member of this team for a few years now. He even joked about sharing secrets with Tom Wilson on how to avoid suspensions by DoPS.

The Capitals are hoping that Gudas can shore up the right side of the third pairing. Gudas is coming off of a decent season in Philadelphia, where he finished 10th overall in hits last season. The Capitals will now have four players in the top 30 in hits on their roster (Alex Ovechkin, Radko Gudas, Tom Wilson, and Garnett Hathaway). Expect Gudas to get plenty of looks on the penalty kill and in defensive zone draws.

By Justin Trudel

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I remember @nateschmidt88 once telling me that Radko Gudas is the toughest guy he had played against a few seasons back. Excited to welcome Radko to the @capitals this 🏒 season. #NextMoveNetwork #ALLCAPS . . . . . #washingtoncapitals #capitalshockey #nhl #radkogudas #czechhockey

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