Where Things Stand Between Capitals & Chychrun As GM Chris Patrick Shares 'Hopeful' Update

Jakob Chychrun has been a perfect fit with the Washington Capitals, and as he prepares for what would be the first real shot at the Stanley Cup Playoffs, he is trying not to think too far ahead into the future, especially when it comes to his next contract.

Chychrun told The Hockey News that he's had talks with the team, but since the 4 Nations break, his focus and the team's focus has been gearing up for a strong finish to the regular season and then what it hopes will be an extended postseason. Still, he said he's "hopefully here for a long time."

"I just don't know if I want to open that can of worms right now; I think it's just exciting for us to be in this position, and I want to really focus on that," Chychrun said last month. "If we talk about that every day, it can be distracting, and I just want to be in the present.

"I think it's so important to be present in the moment. I've never been part of a team where we're getting ready for a big postseason, so that's definitely going to be my main focus. I'm just excited and thrilled for that, and staying in the moment."

As of that conversation, Chychrun said that talks had taken a bit of a backseat since the 4 Nations break.

Now, general manager Chris Patrick told The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun that both sides will "continue to talk," and that he is "hopeful" a deal will get done.

"I think Jakob is in the same boat," Patrick said. "I think he's really liked the situation in Washington, I think it's been good for both sides. He's been a good fit for our group, and I think our group is good for him."

Washington can clinch a spot in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs on Thursday as it hosts the Philadelphia Flyers.