(Alena Schwarz)
After being eliminated from the playoffs early again, Caps’ general manager Brian Maclellan said that the team needs three scoring lines. He also said the Caps looked slow against a much faster Penguins team. With the salary cap most likely staying flat or even potentially going down, those needs may have to come from within the organization.
This is where Nathan Walker may get his chance. This year he had 41 points in 73 games played with the Hershey Bears. I could see him playing along another speedy guy in Marcus Johansson and Tom Wilson who the Caps hope can develop into a Joel Ward type player.
This could potentially give the Caps the depth scoring and speed they need. In an interview with Fox Sports, Barry Trotz had said, “The thing that impressed me was his quickness, his intensity, and his strength for a young man.” Hershey coach Troy Mann even complemented the young winger on his speed calling it “outstanding.”
Although he is undersized for most players, he more than makes up for it in hard work and tenacity. The Caps even drafted him for that reason. He might not be exactly what the Caps are looking for, but he may be the best option for the Caps.
Walker brings the speed and a depth scoring threat the Caps needed down the stretch this postseason. The Capitals are most likely not going to be able to sign many free agents this summer with the situation of the cap. Walker may not be a franchise winger to go to an all-star game year in and year out, but he may be able to provide just what the Caps might need heading into the 2016-2017 season.
