October 18, 2023 | 11:10am ET
TheFourthPeriod.com

CAPITALS CONTINUE SEARCH FOR TOP-SIX FORWARD

Capitals GM Brian MacLellan

Washington Capitals GM Brian MacLellan made it known in the off-season that he was scouring the League for another offensive weapon to add to his club’s top-six forward corps. He reiterated his search prior to the start of this new 2023-24 season.

Citing multiple sources, TFP’s David Pagnotta reported Wednesday morning that the Capitals remain in the hunt for a top-six offensive forward and are currently engaged in trade discussions.

One player the Capitals have been linked to, as Pagnotta reported on Monday, is Vancouver Canucks winger Conor Garland, whom Vancouver is actively trying to trade.

Garland, 27, is in the third year of a five-year, $24.75 million contract and comes with a $4.95 million salary cap hit. He does not own any no-trade protection.

The Capitals aren’t the only team in pursuit, however, as the Nashville Predators, Columbus Blue Jackets, Chicago Blackhawks and Carolina Hurricanes are among the teams that have also inquired about his availability.

MacLellan has been trying to move forward Anthony Mantha since last season, but shipping him to Vancouver in a swap for Garland appears to be unlikely as the Canucks are trying to create both a roster spot and salary cap space. Mantha has a $5.7 million cap hit.

Anaheim Ducks forward Adam Henrique, and San Jose Sharks wingers Anthony Duclair and Mike Hoffman, are among the forwards also believed to be available this season, though these players are more likely to be dealt later in the season.

The Capitals have do not have any salary cap space to play with, so any significant addition will likely result in a roster player, perhaps Mantha, being moved.