The Capitals could target the 6-foot forward with a rocket of a shot and plenty of creativity.
The Washington Capitals hold a couple of first-round draft picks, and this year's draft pool features a plethora of depth.
If the Capitals choose to keep those picks and add to their prospect pool, one name they may consider is forward Nikita Klepov.
The 17-year-old, ranked eighth among North American skaters by NHL Central Scouting, made the jump from the USHL this season to play with the OHL's Saginaw Spirit, where he put up 37 goals and 60 assistts for 97 points through 67 games in his rookie campaign.
It was an impressive breakout year for Klepov, who's committed to Michigan State, but not necessarily the most surprising given his skill-set. He works wonders with the puck and has a lethal shot and a lot of finesse and creativity, and his high hockey IQ helps him make good moves up the ice and smart passes and plays in the offensive zone.
The 6-foot-, 183-pound forward is versatile and can be deployed in all situations, and is the kind of player that can spark a power play. He can also log heavy minutes, find the open space and has the mobility and creativity to generate offense and change the game when needed.
Ultimately, to succeed at the highest level, he'll need to add size and work on his skating and stride, though that's all a work in progress, and time in the NCAA should more than help with his development. He'll also have to show that this past season wasn't a one-off and continue to show consistency after having put up just 31 points last year in the USHL.
That said, Klepov is a dynamic player with flare and power, and his upside makes him a top name to watch going forward.