3 Washington Capitals Not Expected Back Next Season

The Washington Capitals continue to be a team looking to re-tool on the fly. The Caps make some adjustments at the trade deadline this season and sold off a few assets for some pieces for their future. Expect to see general manager Brian MacLellan stay busy at the NHL Entry Draft and into next offseason. While some new faces will be coming in, expect to see these three players leaving town:

Anthony Mantha

The Capitals were in trade talks with several teams regarding Anthony Mantha this season, including the Vancouver Canucks and Montreal Canadiens. Ideally, Washington moves on from Mantha at the draft this summer and has extra financial flexibility before heading into free agency. The 28-year-old scoring winger has one season left on his deal, paying him $5.7 million against the cap.

Matt Irwin

The Capitals are trying to get younger and better on the fly and don't expect to see the team re-sign veteran defenseman Matt Irwin. The 35-year-old is a pending unrestricted free agent who isn't expected to be extended in Washington. In 54 games to this point, Irwin has recorded just five points. 

Connor Brown

This one is a tough one as a lower-body injury has hampered Connor Brown to just four games so far with the Capitals. He's skating once again and could be returning sometime in the next couple of weeks. Brown has only played in four games this season, recording zero points. With the Capitals looking for a top-six forward this summer, don't expect to see them re-sign Brown, who is making $3.6 million against the cap this season.

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