Capitals Ready for Entry Draft, Looking for More Picks

The Washington Capitals are raring to go for the Year 2006 CLUTCH Draft. With eight picks, Washington will be ale to make major progress in developing their Junior team. The Capitals pick twice in the second round (45 and 50), twice in the third round (65 and 90), once in the fourth round (96), twice in the fifth round (131 and 147). The team also owns a compensatory pick after the second round.

During the draft, Washington needs to add one center, one left wing, two right wings, and one goaltender. Besides filling those require spots, the club will likely focus on defenders as the team will lose eight blueliners after the season.

At center, the Jr. Capitals have one 25-year-old, Sean Kotary, but the future looks bright with young stars Cory Urquhart and Patrick O'Sullivan.

At left wing, only Fabien Laniel is still eligible for Star Camps. Zbynek Novak and Sean Bergenheim both look like good prospects for the future.

At right wing, Lance Moynch and Ryan MacMurchy appear to have good chances for development, while Branko Radivojevic is a real sleeper. At 24, he won't be able to attend Star Camps, but the team expects Branko to break-out this season for the Jr. Caps.

In goal, Brad Topping is the current goaltender of the future. Marc Kielkucki and Robert Muller are capable backups.

While time is running short for additional deals, the Capitals are always looking for draft picks. With many players to replace this year and next, the team will pay cash for picks in any round.