Capitals Free Agent Targets: Pierre-Luc Dubois Could Be Interesting RFA To Consider

The Washington Capitals have some tough decisions to make down the middle, and Pierre-Luc Dubois is an intriguing name that could end up on the market.

The Washington Capitals have a lot of work to do this offseason, and depending on how things play out, the team may have to bring in some new faces down the middle. And one name on the market that could be of interest is RFA Pierre-Luc Dubois.

The 24-year-old is coming off an impressive season with the Winnipeg Jets that saw him put up 27 goals and 36 assists for 63 points in 73 games. Since being taken third overall in the 2016 NHL Draft, Dubois has showcased his speed, hockey IQ and all-around ability, while also improving in the playmaking and goal-scoring departments.

Dubois is a restricted free agent who is a year away from UFA status, and he hasn't revealed much about his future in Winnipeg or if he will remain with the organization. And, if he can't come to terms with the Jets on a long-term deal, the team could look to trade him this summer, especially as they look to restructure after a disappointing first-round exit and lack of overall success.

The Montreal Canadiens appear to be the current frontrunners for Dubois, as it'd give him the opportunity to play in front of his hometown crowd. However, per Sportsnet's Ken Wiebe, an Eastern Conference Team "in the vicinity of New York is the most likely outcome" for the 6-4, 214-pound winger, and Washington matches that criteria and could surely benefit from a player of his caliber.

General manager Brian MacLellan made it clear in his exit interview that the Capitals' goal is to get younger and faster, all while revamping the top-6. Not only that, but there are multiple questions surrounding the future of Evgeny Kuznetsov, who is reportedly "not interested in anything" in D.C. and no longer has a spark suiting up for Washington.

At the same time, what's next for Nicklas Backstrom remains to be seen, as the center remains confident that a full summer of training will work wonders for him on the ice while MacLellan remains skeptical of his level of play after hip resurfacing surgery.

Taking that into account, there are two top-6 talents and power-play specialists that the Capitals could potentially be without come fall. There are several prospects waiting in the wings, including Connor McMichael and Hendrix Lapierre. Ultimately, though, having another proven point producer with NHL experience could be vital -- and Dubois fits the bill.