Matt Duchene> ?

I don't think they go after Duchene because they would have such a logjam on right wing that it would not be wise. These players could play right wing off of that Roster above: Wilson, Leonard, Milano, Protas, Miroschnichenko and Sgarbossa (granted he will most likely be in the ahl).

If they brough in someone like Duchene it would have to be on a one year deal so they can get their youth involved more.

I could see Zac Funk and Persson in the hunt for a roster spot next year. If Funk can keep his game this strong that is. Persson has a chance after his Mestis season.

I think the big decision GMBM will face this offseason is if they ride with Strome, McMichael and Lappiere as there top 9 centers or do they take the risk on a Lindholm type of player in FA.
Obviously a trade for a young top 6 center will be ideal, but highly unlikely unless a Eichel type situation presents its self.

Duchene was drafted and started his career as a center so...

Even then the Caps have Strome, McMichael, Lapierre, Dowd, Protas, Sgarbossa currently on the team and they all can play or do play center.

Yeah I agree, but I personally don't think Strome, McM, Lap, Dowd is strong enough (especially if the Caps are trying to compete for the cup, which they said they are).

There is a gap there...Strome is a bottom 1c or a high 2c, McM is probably more like a solid 3c (similar to Eller who could play 2c in a jam but probably shouldn't for a long period of time), Lap is unproven but looks to be a 3c, and Dowd is Dowd, a great 4c (although has looked pretty brutal recently due to injury I suppose). It depends on how the Caps mgmt looks at it, but imo, the Caps need another Strome type (or better) center.

IMO, it isn't about the quantity of players they have who COULD play center - its about the quality.

1. Duchene
2. Strome
3. McMichael
4. Lapierre

Dowd will get traded as a rental player. And when injuries occur McMichael and or Lapierre have the skill to move into 2C for a short while. Or if the lineup is too thin in the top 6, McMichael can play 2LW or Duchene can move to 1RW.

I would love Duchene on a short term deal. Solid producer, can play wing or center, but he would be an ideal 2C that can score that way Strome can be the playmaker on Ovi's line. If the caps do in fact end up with this much cap space, I doubt they move Kuemper. I could see a buyout if Oshie doesn't LTIRetire. Caps would also likely make a play at Hanifin who they were already tied to at the deadline.