The Washington Capitals have some questions to answer going into training camp, and one of them is what to do with Sonny Milano.
Milano, who missed the majority of last season with an upper-body injury, is expected to be a full participant by the time training camp comes around. He has skated this summer, and general manager Chris Patrick said that he's feeling well and healthy enough to try and make a comeback.
Milano will have to show quite a bit at training camp, considering he not only sat out for a long time with injury, but that he also struggled to open last season.
When it comes down to it, though, expect Milano to make quite a statement, and don't count him out for a roster spot.
The 29-year-old has shown he can be a difference maker when he's healthy and available, thanks to his stickhandling ability, vision and shot. He needs to work on consistency and his two-way play, but overall, he's a proven NHLer who can bring some stability to the third line, which was a bit of a question mark over the course of last season.
That said, nothing's guaranteed for Milano, who appeared in just three games last season. He will have to beat out heavy competition, with Hendrix Lapierre and Ivan Miroshnichenko looking to make the full-time NHL jump, Ethen Frank looking to keep his roster spot and Andrew Cristall trying to force the coaching staff's hand again.
Sonny Milano and the Capitals’ Roster Battle
As the Washington Capitals prepare for training camp, the spotlight turns to Sonny Milano, a skilled winger aiming to reestablish himself after a challenging, injury-plagued season. Milano, who missed nearly all of last year due to an upper-body injury, enters camp healthy and motivated. Known for his slick puck-handling, offensive creativity, and quick release, he has the tools to be a valuable contributor—especially on the third line. But with a crowded forward group and several young players pushing for NHL roles, Milano’s spot is far from secure.
The competition will be fierce. Prospects like Hendrix Lapierre and Ivan Miroshnichenko are hungry for full-time roster spots, while Ethen Frank and Andrew Cristall are also in the mix after strong development camp performances. For Milano, the challenge lies not only in staying healthy but in proving he can be a consistent, two-way player. His offensive upside is clear, but defensive reliability and effort away from the puck will be critical in earning the trust of head coach Spencer Carbery.
Training camp will serve as a litmus test for Milano’s future in Washington. If he can recapture his form and outshine the younger competition, he could solidify a role as a dependable middle-six forward. However, if he struggles, the Capitals may opt to give more ice time to their rising stars. With the team looking to inject youth and speed into the lineup, every shift will matter.
Ultimately, Milano’s fate will be determined by his performance in camp. He has the experience and skill to thrive, but in a league that’s constantly evolving, nothing is guaranteed. For Sonny Milano, this training camp is more than just a return—it’s a proving ground.
