Washington 18/19

Team: 2018-19 Washington Capitals

Initial Creation Date: Apr. 3, 2018

Published: Apr. 3, 2018

Salary Cap Mode: Basic

Only one trade here.
One trade, two drafted players making the move into the team, three extensions and three FA signings.

Now the explanation:
Samsonov is one of the biggest goaltender-talents in the world and this is the year he makes the move to NHL. Holtby will have two years left on his deal so it's the perfect timing to make the transition.

He's not the only russian player to join. Kovalchuk re-join the league so he can win the cup. Early reports placed him in a NY team but they don't really look like contenders this year so I place him in Washington instead. Five russian players makes a winning team. I don't believe he'll sign for 6m+ like several other seems to, 3-4 is reasonable looking at the age.
It's a one year contract so it won't effect them long term.

Desharnais provide depth on center. I considered Vermette but he's four years older.

I want to bring Johansen up and try him as third pair RD. I want him and Bowey to fight for that spot so I won't sign a FA RHD for that spot.
Djoos will suffer from the Cole signing but it will help the team.

I first gave Carlson a 7m contract but the expectations are at 6 so I changed it. I opted for the 6y term but I believe it will be 8.

Now to the trade.
First what Washington gets:
T.J. Brodie is a proven top4 defender with great offensive qualities. He can be what the guy the team need. Adding that they get rid of Orpik.

What does the Flames get?
Grubauer can be tried as their nr 1.
Wilson can give them some much needed aid on the right wing, allowing them to dump Brouwers contract.
Yes they take on Orpik as well for a year but placing him next to Stone or Hamonic in a third pair makes their team even better. They have Kylington and Andersson (among others) to challenge him for their third pair.

I believe the trade to be a good base, may need to add some picks to smoothen it but this is the core trade.