2 days ago
Capitals Get Busy In Third Round, Bring In Chisholm & Draft Schafer
Mandatory Credit: Matt Blewett — imagn Images
The Washington Capitals got to work in the third round of the 2025 NHL Draft, making some moves to shift down in the draft while bringing in another depth defenseman.
Washington first traded its No. 93 pick to the Ottawa Senators in exchange for the No. 96 pick and a 2027 seventh-round selection.
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Then, before making the 96th pick, the Capitals made another trade, acquiring defenseman Declan Chisholm and the 180th overall selection from the Minnesota Wild in exchange for defenseman Chase Priskie and the 123rd overall pick.
Chisholm answers a key question for Washington, as he's a solid depth left-handed blueliner who can provide insurance and experience to the mix. He's a strong skater and good puck mover with good defensive instincts, and he has the speed and upside to continue developing in the right direction.
The 25-year-old had 12 points in 66 games with the Wild last season, and given the team struggled to fill Martin Fehervary's void in the 2025 Stanley Cup Playoffs, they add another option that can go into the lineup and be a reliable option.
Then, with the No. 96 pick, the Capitals picked German winger Maxim Schäfer. In 15 games with the Eisbären Juniors Berlin U20 team, he had 35 points. At 6-foot-4, he's a force to be reckoned with on the ice and is incredibly aggressive on the forecheck. He uses his size and speed to get to the high-danger areas and knows where to go to get open, too.
Washington's next selection comes at No. 155.
