Back during the 2021-22 season, the Tampa Bay Lightning made a big splash, acquiring Brandon Hagel from the Chicago Blackhawks. This move has aged wonderfully for the Lightning, as Hagel has blossomed into one of their top stars.
One of the pieces that the Lightning gave up to acquire Hagel was forward Taylor Raddysh. The change of scenery benefitted the Caledon, Ontario native nicely at first, as the move to Chicago gave him the opportunity to play more consistent minutes. In his final 21 games of the 2021-22 season with the Blackhawks, he had six goals and 10 points. That was after he had just five goals and 12 points in 53 contests with the Bolts.
During the 2022-23 season, Raddysh took a big step forward in his development, recording new career highs with 20 goals, 17 assists, and 37 points in 78 games. However, after breaking out for the Blackhawks, he struggled this past season, posting five goals, nine assists, and a minus-19 rating in 73 games.
Following his tough 2023-24 season, Raddysh did not receive a qualifying offer from Chicago and became an unrestricted free agent. He then quickly signed a one-year, $1 million contract with the Washington Capitals. With the Caps, the 2016 second-round pick has the potential to bounce back in a big way.
When noting that Raddysh is only 26 years old and produced well offensively just back in 2022-23, there is reason to believe he can turn things around with the Capitals. When looking at the Capitals' depth at right wing, Raddysh also stands a good chance of playing middle-six minutes. In addition, he could receive some reps on their second power-play unit as well.
Overall, Raddysh has the potential to have a better season in 2024-25. He has already shown that he can score at the NHL level while in the right role, and the Capitals have the potential to give him that. It will be intriguing to see if the fresh start benefits him from here.
