The Washington Capitals are stuggling with cap space and have a number of free agents to address, including big names like Jakub Vrana, Brett Connolly, Brooks Orpik and perhaps most importantly, Andre Burakovsky.
The 2013 first-round pick, who has struggled with inconsistency throughout his career, may be on the move heading into the offseason.
General manager Brian MacLellan said that there is the possibility that the 24-year-old winger could be dealt this summer. MacLellan says he and the team are continuing to assess their options, especially with eight other free agents to address, including Burakovsky.
"We're still talking to some teams," MacLellan told Sporting News in regards to shopping Burakovsky.
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This past season, the Swedish forward finished with just 12 goals and 25 points in 76 games, the same exact total he managed in 20 fewer games the previous year. His career has not only been plagued by lengthy cold streaks and only flashes of potential, but he's also experienced multiple injuries that have affected on his play.
Burakovsky's performance has led to not only a lack of confidence and being scratched from time to time, but made him the center of trade rumors, tossing his future with the team up in the air.
Many expected him to be dealt at the deadline, but the Capitals kept him around. It seemed to prove well for the winger as he registered four points in five games and seemed to put a spark in his eye. However, the strong play didn't last long as he managed just one more point until the end of the regular season.
"I think Andre had a frustrating year, but he finished it up well," MacLellan said. "There's been some inconsistencies there, but when he's on his game, he's a good player."
That being said, he may not be able to stick around, especially given Washington's cap situation.
Right now, the NHL salary cap is up in the air, and Washington still has its aforementioned free agents to deal with. Additionally, the Capitals have to pay attention to their future, as star players Nicklas Backstrom and Braden Holtby will need high-paying extensions next summer.
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MacLellan said the team has been in touch with Burakovsky's agent and that they would "like to keep him around," but it may not be that simple. He's also keeping his options open and hearing out offers from other clubs, but for now, Burakovsky is here to stay unless the price is right.
"We're not going to move him unless we feel comfortable getting something back," MacLellan said.
One potential suggestion would be to make a one-for-one trade with the Edmonton Oilers and deal Burakovsky for Jesse Puljujarvi. The disgruntled winger from Sweden recently requested a trade and is another up-and-coming player who would benefit from a change in scenery.
Moving forward, Burakovsky says he would like to remain in D.C. to continue to improve his game and put his struggles behind him.
"I love Washington," Burakovsky said. "My goal is to stay and hopefully, I will be able to. It has been up and down for sure... obviously want to be more consistent and I think I learned a lot ... I think I am on the right path for sure."