Metro Notes: Holl, Eklund, Greaves
The Washington Capitals enter their training camp with roster battles taking center stage. Veteran defenseman Justin Holl faces a challenge to secure a spot on the opening-night roster. He must outperform younger prospects like David Gucciardi and Ryan Chesley, as well as veteran Dylan McIlrath. Capitals coach Spencer Carbery brings a history with Holl, having worked with him during their time together in Toronto. Carbery views the defenseman as a reliable option for the penalty kill, a role where Holl previously excelled by leading the team in short-handed ice time. The organization hopes a return to a familiar system allows Holl to regain his previous form after a season largely spent in the AHL.
In the New York Islanders organization, eyes are on 19-year-old prospect Victor Eklund. Following a successful transition from Sweden, Eklund showed readiness during his brief stint at the end of last season, recording 10 points in nine AHL games and logging his first NHL point. While he has a legitimate opportunity to claim a top-six role on the big club, the organization has the option to assign him to the AHL Hamilton Hammers if he requires more time for development.
Finally, the Columbus Blue Jackets resolved a tense contract situation with goaltender Jet Greaves. The team signed the netminder to a three-year extension worth $5MM annually, avoiding a scheduled arbitration hearing. While the deal keeps Greaves in Columbus, the process revealed a significant gap in valuation between the player and the front office. General Manager Don Waddell noted that the two sides were far apart on salary during negotiations. Both parties now have a two-year window of stability before Greaves reaches free agency in 2029, though the recent difference in contract assessment remains a point of interest for future long-term discussions.