The Washington Capitals loved what they saw from Andrew Cristall in 2023-24. And now, they want him to take things to an even higher level in what will be a pivotal upcoming season for the rising prospect.
Cristall is in an interesting spot entering his second year with the Capitals organization. The 19-year-old is coming off a stellar post-draft year that saw him make major strides with the WHL's Kelowna Rockets, but he's still too young to make the AHL jump.
That said, he'll either start the season in juniors, or he could do what multiple prospects set out to do each camp: impress the coaching staff and earn a spot on the NHL opening night roster.
For the Capitals, who currently face an influx of centers and added a number of forwards to the mix this offseason, it doesn't seem like the most likely development. However, general manager Chris Patrick would be interested to see that would play out.
"I'm really curious to see how he looks at training camp this year, his second camp," Patrick told NHL.com's Tom Gulitti, adding, "I'd love to see him make it hard on Spencer (Carbery) and his staff to have to send him back."
Cristall has taken major strides forward since falling to the second round in the 2023 NHL Draft. He has worked vigorously to prove the Capitals right for taking him 40th overall, as he not only worked on his skating but showcased his lethal scoring ability, offensive instincts and speed in a standout season with the Rockets.
In 62 WHL games, Cristall picked up 40 goals and 71 assists for 111 points (fifth-most in the league), and his 1.79 points-per-game also ranked fifth league-wide. He also got a tryout with the AHL's Hershey Bears, where he gained even more pro experience by practicing with the back-to-back Calder Cup champions.
"I learned how they treat their bodies, take care of themselves and how they’re just kind of meshing as a team," Cristall said.
Beyond improving his skating ability, he has also been putting in work at the gym in order to add strength and muscle to his 5-10 frame, while continuing to place emphasis on his shooting, playmaking and hockey IQ. He also impressed with Team Canada in the World Junior Summer Showcase this offseason.
At the end of the day, Cristall will have a lot to show at training camp in the coming weeks. And though the likely route is that he'll start the year in juniors given the lack of vacancies in D.C., he could certainly shake things up as he's in control of his future going forward.
Capitals training camp opens in mid-September.
