NHL

NHL News: Capitals GM Chris Patrick prepares Alex Ovechkin and teammates for roster moves

The Washington Capitals general manager made no secret of his perspective on making moves before the trade deadline, despite superstar Alex Ovechkin's team's great momentum in the 2024-25 NHL season.

Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals skates during warmups before playing against the New York Islanders at Capital One Arena on December 20, 2023 in Washington, DC.
© Patrick Smith/Getty ImagesAlex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals skates during warmups before playing against the New York Islanders at Capital One Arena on December 20, 2023 in Washington, DC.

The Washington Capitals are at an ideal moment, the best team in the East with a serious chance to contend for the Stanley Cup in the 2024-25 NHL season. Star Alex Ovechkin leads the Caps on the ice, but this time it’s important to hear what’s being said off the court.

With the trade deadline approaching in early March, the Capitals‘ general manager has weighed in on roster moves. In no uncertain terms, Chris Patrick cautions Ovechkin and his teammates not to get overconfident.

Normally, it would seem that little would change for a team that is one of the top contenders for a playoff championship. However, Patrick has made his position clear, even though the pre trade deadline moves could change the dynamic of his roster.

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What did the Capitals GM say about the trade deadline?

“Everything is on the table,” Patrick said of moves at the trade deadline, according to NHL.com. “Obviously, the team’s had a really good year so far. We got a couple months here to go where we need to continue improving our game and getting to the next level,” the Caps GM explained.

Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals reacts after scoring a goal against the Montreal Canadiens during the third period of the game at Capital One Arena on October 31, 2024 in Washington, DC.

Alex Ovechkin #8 of the Washington Capitals reacts after scoring a goal against the Montreal Canadiens during the third period of the game at Capital One Arena on October 31, 2024 in Washington, DC.

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“Obviously, when the playoffs start, everything ramps up, and we got to make sure we’re ready to do that. I think it’s going to be a balance of, are there ways to improve our team versus risking over-tinkering with what’s been a pretty good group so far this year,” Patrick said.

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Alex Ovechkin continues to strive for NHL goal scoring record

Caps star Alex Ovechkin is not complacent with what he has accomplished so far in the 2024-25 NHL season. The 39-year-old forward is chasing the league’s all-time scoring record and is 12 goals shy of Wayne Gretzky (894). The Great Eight have at least 23 games left to play.

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