Washington Capitals Rumors: Defenseman Becoming Trade Candidate

The Washington Capitals currently do not have a playoff spot, and there are rumblings that they may be switching to sellers at the 2023 Trade Deadline because of it. As a result, defenseman Erik Gustafsson is starting to emerge as a potential trade candidate from them.

Gustafsson has been a feel-good story for the Capitals this campaign, as he has easily been one of their top defensemen. Signed to a one-year, $800,000 contract, he was expected to be a depth defenseman for them. Yet, he has been far more than that, as he has seven goals, 34 points, and a plus-9 rating in 58 games. Due to his solid offensive numbers and very cheap cap hit, the Capitals could get a good return for him at the deadline if he is made available.

Once Shayne Gostisbehere is dealt by the Arizona Coyotes, do not be surprised in the slightest if Gustafsson's market heats up. After all, like Gostisbehere, he is a left-shot offensive defenseman who is having a very good season. Teams who we could see make a push for the veteran include the Edmonton Oilers, Calgary Flames, Los Angeles Kings, Toronto Maple Leafs, and New York Rangers.