Capitals Looking For Upgrade At Third-Line Center, Is Laughton A Fit?

The Capitals appear to want more forward depth going into the back half of the season.

The Washington Capitals have some business to take care of as they enter the back half of the regular season, and one of the items on their to-do list indicate that they're looking to bolster the bottom-6.

Per The Daily Faceoff's Frank Seravalli, Washington is specifically looking for an upgrade at third-line center. Lars Eller, who was brought back to D.C. in November, is currently in that role.

The Capitals' third line has been looking to find stability over the course of the season, as that trio's come up short offensively and has struggled to maintain consistency.

While Ethen Frank's addition has helped that line discover a bit of a spark, Washington will need more forward depth if it wants to make a deep run come playoff time.

That's where having a stronger center comes into play, as they can help bring a new look to the mix.

Seravalli suggested that someone like Philadelphia Flyers pivot Scott Laughton could be a fit. The 30-year-old is a grizzly, experienced two-way center who has 26 points in 54 games this season, and can play multiple roles. He hits hard, kills penalties and lays it all on the line for his team, and he only costs $3 million this season and next.

The Capitals also have to consider the possibility that Ryan Leonard makes the pro jump in the spring, and he could also be a major x-factor on that third line. Having him and a center like Laughton adds a lot of size and physicality, along with offensive prowess, to that combination.

Ultimately, there will be several options come the trade deadline, which falls on March 7.