Lars Eller, the seasoned Washington Capitals center with over 1,100 NHL games under his belt, is no stranger to success, having hoisted the Stanley Cup in 2018. That year, Eller played a key role in the Capitals’ championship victory, contributing 18 goals in the regular season and 18 points across 24 playoff games. Now, seven years later, he’s eyeing another deep playoff run with a transformed Caps roster, where only a few players from the 2018 squad remain.
In a conversation with RG, Eller reflected on how the team has evolved since his brief departure a few seasons ago, describing the current group as “nuts” in a nod to their distinct style. “It’s a different vibe now. This team’s got more grit than flash—not as much raw skill or scoring punch,” he explained. “We don’t have a playmaker like Kuznetsov anymore. Instead, we’ve got guys who are tougher defensively, plus some familiar physicality from players like Ovi and Tom.”
Despite the roster overhaul, Eller sees a constant: the Capitals’ championship potential. He believes this team, like the 2018 version, has the tools to compete for the Stanley Cup. “Some things have stayed the same, some are new, but there’s still that chance to win playoff rounds and go all the way,” he said. “Everything shifts a bit over time.”
With fewer than 20 games left in the regular season, the Capitals have already locked in a playoff berth. Leading the Metropolitan Division and in the hunt for the President’s Trophy—awarded to the league’s top regular-season team—they’re once again among the NHL’s elite contenders.
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