Once dominant in the Eastern Conference, the Washington Capitals and Pittsburgh Penguins have faced challenges in recent seasons, missing the playoffs in 2023. However, Washington has rebounded with a strong start to the current season, while Pittsburgh struggles below .500.
Both teams made significant roster changes since the 2023 NHL Trade Deadline, with Washington trading key players like Dmitry Orlov and acquiring Rasmus Sandin, while Pittsburgh's moves included acquiring Erik Karlsson and Kevin Hayes.
As both teams navigate the twilight years of stars Alex Ovechkin and Sidney Crosby, they must balance rebuilding with a desire to compete, leading to intriguing questions about their futures.
