WASHINGTON — The Washington Capitals' season came to an end Sunday after they were swept by the New York Rangers in the first round of the playoffs. The team wasn't expected to make the playoffs this year, given the exit of Nicklas Backstrom and the Evgeny Kuznetsov trade. The Caps also made it to the postseason with a rookie head coach in Spencer Carbery.
While there were reasons to celebrate, the team now focuses on next season — and the uncertainty surrounding it.
"I feel proud of the growth we showed this year, and what the season was looking like and where we ended up," said Caps defenseman John Carlson.
Center Dylan Strome said there are areas to improve, but was happy the team made it as far as it did.
"We found a way to keep grinding and obviously got into the playoffs. There are things to learn from, but I think for the most part we're proud of the way we fought to get in there, and lots to learn from the the future," he said.
But questions remain for the team as they look toward next year. Notably, will the Great Eight lace up his skates?
"I've always said I love this game so much. If I'm not going to be able to feel the love and not going to be comfortable to play, then I'm not going to play," Alex Ovechkin told WUSA9's Chick Hernandez.
The biggest question mark is T.J. Oshie, who is dealing with a serious back injury. He said there were times this year when laying on the floor was his best position. Oshie broke his hand in Game 3 against the Rangers. He said the broken hand was like a hangnail compared to his back.
"I'd love to play next year, but I will need to come back with somewhat of a guarantee that my back won't be — It's hard putting everyone through this situation," Oshie said.
It's an offseason of questions for the Capitals.
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