The Washington Capitals have taken a major step toward securing their future offensive arsenal by signing 18-year-old forward Lynden Lakovic to a three-year entry-level contract worth $975,000 annually with an $85,000 signing bonus. The Capitals’ front office officially announced the deal late last night, confirming that Lakovic is set to be loaned to the Moose Jaw Warriors of the Western Hockey League (WHL) for the 2025-26 season.
Lakovic, one of the most talked-about young prospects in recent drafts, exploded onto the radar after a dominant playoff run with the Warriors last spring. With 33 goals and 47 assists in 64 games, the high-octane forward showcased a combination of raw scoring touch, elite skating acceleration, and an uncanny vision that few players his age possess.
“This is a very exciting day for our organization,” said Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan. “Lynden has shown incredible maturity in his game and a relentless drive to improve. We believe he has the potential to become a core part of our future.”
Lakovic’s journey to the NHL spotlight has been far from ordinary. Hailing from Fort Saskatchewan, Alberta, the young winger defied early draft projections by transforming into one of the fastest risers in the WHL, drawing comparisons to players like Jordan Eberle and even a young Mitch Marner due to his dual-threat ability as a playmaker and finisher.
Multiple NHL scouts had been watching Lakovic throughout the WHL postseason, with insiders reporting that Washington had him high on their draft board for months. His ability to make high-level reads in traffic, dominate on special teams, and play a defensively responsible game at such a young age made him an attractive all-around pick.
While Lakovic is not expected to immediately join the Capitals roster, the decision to loan him back to Moose Jaw for another year is a calculated development move. “We want him to keep playing big minutes, stay in high-pressure situations, and continue building confidence,” said Capitals director of player development, Ross Mahoney. “He’s not just another draft-and-stash—we’re investing time, mentorship, and all the resources he needs to succeed.”
Lakovic has already begun skating with the Capitals’ development camp, where his speed and offensive creativity turned heads on day one. Fellow players and staff alike have praised his work ethic and enthusiasm.
“I know I’ve got a lot to learn,” Lakovic said in his first official press conference wearing a Capitals jersey. “But I also know I belong here, and I’m going to work every day to prove that.”
As Washington begins shaping its next era—with aging stars like Alex Ovechkin approaching the twilight of their careers—the franchise is clearly focused on grooming a new wave of young talent. With Lynden Lakovic now officially on board, the Capitals may have just secured one of the most electric pieces of their rebuild puzzle.
The Capitals’ fanbase has already embraced the signing, with Lakovic jerseys reportedly already in high demand. The future is being written in Washington—and Lynden Lakovic might just hold the pen.