As the NHL calendar turns to August, signaling the countdown to training camp, a few Washington Capitals players are already back in action. Logan Thompson and Matt Roy, two of the team’s key acquisitions last offseason, have begun informal workouts at the MedStar Capitals Iceplex.
These early sessions indicate their dedication and eagerness to prepare for the upcoming season. The drills, overseen by Capitals goaltending coach Scott Murray, also featured a small group of players, suggesting more may join as camp nears.
Thompson and Roy Cement Roles as Core Pieces in Capitals’ Long-Term Plans
Thompson, 28, is entering his second season with Washington and has already proven his value. He claimed the starting goaltender position last season, finishing fourth in Vezina Trophy voting thanks to an impressive 31-6-6 record, a 2.49 goals-against average, and a .910 save percentage.
Matt Roy (NHL)After signing a six-year, $35.1 million contract extension in January, Thompson chose to remain in the DC area through the offseason, contributing to team events and even serving as a guest coach during development camp.
Matt Roy also made a strong impression in his first season with the Capitals. The 30-year-old defenseman played in 69 games and posted 24 points, averaging nearly 20 minutes of ice time per game, the third-highest on the team. Roy’s solid performance and long-term contract signal the organization’s commitment to strengthening its defensive core for seasons to come.
Additional Skaters Join Early Workouts, Building Chemistry Ahead of 2025 Training Camp Start
Joining Thompson and Roy on the ice were Sam Anas and Hayden Hodgson. Anas, a Potomac native currently playing in Belarus for Dynamo Minsk, took advantage of his time back home to get some ice time in. Hodgson, an Ottawa Senators forward, is spending time in DC due to personal ties he’s dating Kira Muller, daughter of Capitals assistant coach Kirk Muller. Their presence adds to the early momentum and camaraderie building ahead of official training camp.
While the Capitals have yet to announce specific dates for their 2025 Training Camp, last year’s began on September 19, offering a rough benchmark. The presence of key players returning early sets a focused and optimistic tone for the upcoming season. As more teammates are expected to join these informal sessions in the coming weeks, the Capitals are laying the groundwork for a competitive and cohesive start to their 2025-26 campaign.
