
Evans could add more stability on the Capitals' third line.
As the Washington Capitals continue their impressive run this season and look ahead to the playoffs, they're looking at several options when it comes to bolstering the roster at the deadline. And one name that's emerged is Montreal Canadiens pivot Jake Evans.
Per The Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, the Capitals are among the potential suitors for Evans' services as a piece to fill out the bottom 6, and the team was believed to have tried to acquire him at the draft this summer.
Through 50 games this season, Evans has picked up 11 goals and 14 assists for 25 points, along with three shorthanded goals, five game-winners and a career-high shooting percentage of 21.6. He has also done quite well in the face-off dot over the last few years and has won over 50 percent of his draws in all but one of his six NHL seasons.
The 28-year-old is a versatile depth forward who can play multiple roles and log crucial minutes, while also killing penalties and coming up with timely plays. While he's not the flashiest player, he's reliable, has upside and does his job well.
As Seravalli points out, Evans could be a "better fit" as the team's third-line center going forward over Lars Eller, who hasn't quite been able to find consistency on that trio since being re-acquired back in November to take over for a struggling Hendrix Lapierre.
Washington's third line has been a question mark all season long, though Ethen Frank's addition has surely helped.
Overall, though, the Capitals want more depth on offense and need more secondary scoring, especially with some players cooling off after red-hot starts to the season. And while Evans isn't a top-6 speedster, he's certainly a strong-depth name that can provide a new look and stability.
The Athletic's Pierre LeBrun also reported that the team is looking for another top-6 winger, though Ryan Leonard could be a candidate to fill that role come spring.