After Logan Thompson signed a six-year extension with the Washington Capitals at the end of January, Charlie Lindgren was left wondering where he fit into the picture — but that didn't last long.
General manager Chris Patrick brought Lindgren in for a meeting, explaining that there was still very much a place for the 31-year-old and that the organization wanted him and Thompson to make up their tandem going forward.
"It's not like we were ever really far off... He told me where I fit into the picture and how bad he wanted me to be a part of this organization," Lindgren said on Monday.
The feeling was mutual, and on Monday, both sides came to terms on a three-year, $9 million extension.
"Since joining our organization in 2022, Charlie has consistently demonstrated exceptional professionalism and reliability in net with his athleticism and drive," general manager Chris Patrick. "With both goalies under contract for the next three seasons, we expect this tandem to provide our club stability at a crucial position and push one another to compete and play at a high level.”
For Lindgren, leaving Washington wasn't a realistic option; over the last three years, not only has he earned a permanent spot and more responsibility and recognition at the highest level, but he's been able to call the organization home and fit in well thanks to the tight-knit locker room and community.
"It feels really good. The business side is probably the toughest part of hockey," Lindgren said, adding, "Really happy to get it done and to sign a three-year deal here. The people here from the trainers to the staff right through security, teammates, it’s really just a home-run organization. Really happy."
Last season, he rose to prominence as he boasted a .919 save percentage down the stretch to help Washington sneak into the 2024 Stanley Cup Playoffs. This year, he's been sharing the crease with Logan Thompson, forming a 1A/1B tandem that's motivated him to stay at the top of his game with healthy competition and a reliable partner.
For Lindgren, having Thompson join the mix has pushed him to be a stronger goaltender, and he's excited to continue sharing the crease with him for years to come.
"He's constantly pushing me to get better. Obviously with his play this year, I knew that if I wasn't playing well, I probably wouldn't get many opportunities... it's kept me focused, it's kept me driven and hopefully, I've done the same to him.
"Logan and I make a really good partnership. We get along really well, and to have us both locked up here for at least three years now, I think it's a good thing for the organization."
The numbers don't tell the full story for Lindgren this season; through 27 games, he has a .898 save percentage, but has come up with some key saves while bailing his team out on numerous occasions.
Going forward, Lindgren wants to continue to build on his numbers and skill set, and said that his "best hockey's still in front of me."
"I look forward to showing that and proving that. there’s not going to be any complacency," Lindgren said. "I'm not comfortable by any stretch of the imagination. I'm going to keep pushing here to be a better goalie.”