The Washington Capitals face a crucial week ahead as they approach the NHL's Olympic break for the 2026 Winter Games in Milan-Cortina, Italy. The team's schedule is packed with important games, including Metropolitan Division matchups and a final push before the break.
Schedule and Key Storylines
The Capitals have a busy schedule from February 1st to 5th: * February 2 vs. New York Islanders: The Capitals host the Islanders at Capital One Arena at 7:00 PM EST. This is the fourth time the teams meet this season. The Capitals won the previous matchup 4-1. The Capitals are 27-22-7 overall with a 10-3-2 record against the Metropolitan Division. The New York Islanders are 30-20-5 overall and 10-5-2 against the Metropolitan Division. The game includes a Pierre-Luc Dubois Designed Hat Giveaway. * February 3 vs. Philadelphia Flyers: The Capitals play the Flyers at the Xfinity Mobile Arena at 7:00 PM EST. * February 5 vs. Nashville Predators: The Capitals face the Predators at Capital One Arena at 7:00 PM EST. This is the last game before the Olympic break. The game will feature a Star Wars Night theme.
The Olympic Break
The NHL will pause its season from February 6 to February 24 for the 2026 Winter Olympics. The Capitals will have a 17-day break. The NHL will institute a trade freeze that begins on February 4 at 3 PM (EST) and lasts until February 22 at 11:59 PM (EST). Teams cannot hold practices from February 6 through February 16 but can resume full practices after 2 PM local time on February 17.
Metropolitan Division Clashes
The Capitals face division rivals, the New York Islanders and Philadelphia Flyers. These games are crucial for playoff positioning. The Washington Capitals are 27-22-7 overall with a 10-3-2 record against the Metropolitan Division.
Team Updates and Injuries
Connor McMichael is out week-to-week with an upper-body injury and will miss games through the Olympic break. Logan Thompson is day-to-day after being injured by a puck, casting doubt on his ability to play in the Olympics. Charlie Lindgren and Matt Roy were placed on injured reserve. Pierre-Luc Dubois has started skating but is expected to return after the Olympic break.
Other News
The Washington Capitals beat the Carolina Hurricanes 4-3 in overtime on January 31. Tom Wilson's hit on Logan Stankoven sparked the Capitals' comeback win over the Hurricanes. The Capitals are reportedly interested in acquiring Artemi Panarin from the New York Rangers and are willing to meet his contract extension demands. Alex Ovechkin and LeBron James shared a moment courtside and swapped jerseys after a Lakers-Wizards game.