Breakout Candidate: Ryan Leonard, RW
Leonard was the big dog in college, but that swagger and success did not translate to the NHL immediately. With a full offseason to prepare and a possible second line power-play spot, Leonard should produce accordingly. He is slated to start the season on the third line but could move up.
Buy Low Candidate: Charlie Lindgren, G
Lindgren is a 1B but really the second goalie in Washington based on the playoffs. Logan Thompson played every game in the postseason, relegating Lindgren to opening the bench gate duty. Despite a so-so campaign, Lindgren signed a three-year, $9 million contract with the Capitals in March. If Thompson is out or falters, Lindgren is more than capable of handling the load in net.
Riser: Logan Thompson, G
Thompson proved last season that he can be a team’s top goalie. The only challenge is that he and Charlie Lindgren are more 1A and 1B than one and two, meaning Thompson’s ceiling is capped. That said, 25-30 wins is certainly in reach based on expected playing time and the team in front of Thompson.
Faller: Alex Ovechkin, LW
Ovi will almost certainly top 30 goals again. Expecting 44 markers again is a bit of a stretch. Now that he has set the record, Ovi can pace himself so that he peaks late in the season and especially when the playoffs roll around. As such, a drop in production should be expected. (Several players could have been chosen here)
All stats courtesy of naturalstattrick.com, moneypuck.com, hockeyviz.com, allthreezones.com, hockey-reference.com, eliteprospects.com unless otherwise noted.