Connor McMichael broke out for the Washington Capitals last season with career-highs of 26 goals and 57 points, thriving with top-six minutes and poised to seize the third-line center role vacated by Lars Eller. His speed, puck management, and chemistry potential with young wingers like Ryan Leonard could give the Caps a dynamic depth-scoring unit, though Hendrix Lapierre will push for the spot. McMichael’s continued growth could be key as the team prepares for the eventual post-Ovechkin era.

Meanwhile, Alex Ovechkin enters his 21st NHL season with 897 career goals, eyeing 900 and a second Stanley Cup. After a 44-goal campaign despite a broken leg, the captain says his focus is on winning, not deciding his future when his contract ends next summer. Former Caps great Nicklas Backstrom is also back on the ice — not in D.C., but with Brynäs IF in Sweden — marking an emotional comeback nearly two years after hip surgery ended his NHL career.

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