The Washington Capitals had the eighth overall pick in the 2023 NHL Entry Draft. Leading up to the draft, rumors were swirling around that the team was going to trade up to the fifth overall pick. This was rumored because they were heavily involved in rumors about wanting draft Matvei Michkov. Since he was taken before the Capitals got on the board, general manager Brian MacLellan went with Ryan Leonard who was playing at the U.S. National Player Development program. He has committed to going to Boston College in the Fall for at least one season. In 57 games, he had 51 goals and 43 assists for 94 points.
The second player drafted 40th overall was another winger. Andrew Cristall has been toted as a steal dropping to 40th in the draft. In 54 games, he had 39 goals and 56 assists for 95 points overall.
In round four, center Patrick Thomas, was drafted with the 104th overall pick. In 66 games he had17 goals and 39 assists for 56 points. This was his second year to be eligible for the nhl draft and while he did not get picked last year, he toned up his skill and was able to get a shot this year.
After focusing on forwards and offense with the first three picks, Brian MacLellan went with a blue liner and drafted Cameron Allen. It has been reported that he has a strong two way game and battles hard. He can also lead a breakout and due to his ability to be a two way player, had five goals and 20 assists in 62 games.
With the first of two picks in the 7th round, the focus was on offense yet again. Brett Hyland had been passed on during the past two drafts, but finally is getting a shot with the team this year. This year he amassed 26 goals and 21 assists for 47 points in 72 games.
After trading the 7th round pick in 2025, to San Jose for this years 7th round pick, the Caps drafted Antoine Keller. He is a French Goaltender.
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