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The Washington Capitals will be looking to build on last season’s disappointing first-round exit. While the club made some key additions in the offseason, captain Alexander Ovechkin could use more support around him.
With the Washington Capitals short on cap space, signing players to PTOs is a cost-effective way to bring in talented players without breaking the bank. So, here’s a look at the PTO signings the Washington Capitals could consider ahead of training camp this fall.
3 PTO signings Washington Capitals may consider before preseason
#3: Tyler Pitlick
Tyler Pitlick had a down season last year. In 34 games, he managed one goal and four points. The disappointing season prompted the New York Rangers to pass on re-signing him this offseason.
Pitlick could join the Washington Capitals on a PTO, making him a solid, cost-effective option for the club’s bottom six. Pitlick adds grit and offers a decent skill set in what could mainly be a fourth-line role.
In addition, Pitlick could fill in as a 13th forward or head down to the AHL to be one of the first call-ups in case of injury. This possibility makes Pitlick a serviceable option to consider on a PTO.
#2: Chris Tierney
Tierney spent last season with division rivals, the New Jersey Devils. In 52 games, Tierney chipped in with 12 points. That sort of production would be worthwhile from a bottom-six grinder. Tierney plays a tough, physical game, making his offensive contributions a bonus.
Tierney signed a one-year, 775K deal with the Devils last season. So, a similar deal could provide the Caps with a depth forward who could fill in case of injuries or inconsistency. Plus, adding gritty players is never a bad thing to have.
#1: Justin Schultz
The Capitals could add a familiar face in Schultz. Schultz played two seasons in Washington before signing as a free agent with the Seattle Kraken.
Schultz had a relatively productive season, notching seven goals and 26 points in 70 games. While Schultz wouldn’t be expected to play the bottom-four role he had during his first stint with the Caps, he could fill in as a bottom-pairing defenseman.
However, there’s an upside to bringing Schultz back. He could climb up the depth chart if injuries strike. That would be a good option in case any of the Caps’ top four blueliners go down.
Schultz is coming off a two-year, $6 million deal with the Kraken. The Caps could bring him back on a one-year, prove-it deal close to $1 million. That sort of contract would allow Schultz to demonstrate if he’s still worthy of one more multi-year deal.
