Yahoo Sports Chychrun Feeling At Home With Capitals; Will He Stay Long Term? 'From Top To Bottom, This Organization Has Been Phenomenal'
WASHINGTON — Jakob Chychrun is feeling right at home with the Washington Capitals.
The 26-year-old, who was acquired at the start of free agency in exchange for Nick Jensen and a draft pick, has gotten off to a stellar start in the District, finding his game with ease.
Through 32 games, he has 11 goals and 14 assists for 25 points and is tied with Zach Werenski and Cale Makar for the NHL goal-scoring lead among defensemen. He also has 17 points in his last 17 games and is on pace to finish with 60 points.
"I think (my success has come from me) just being confident and moving my feet, making plays and attacking when the opportunity's there," Chychrun said. "I think my shot has been something I've worked on my whole life and a big part of my game and when I have the opportunity I try to bear down and score a goal.
"But the whole group's been contributing, and that's what makes it fun, you know? Guys are confident, making plays, finding each other and we're able to score some goals and win hockey games."
When asked if this is the most at-home he's felt in his career after rocky tenures with both the Arizona Coyotes and Ottawa Senators, Chychrun noted how well he's meshed with the group in D.C.
"It's been great. It's been awesome," Chychrun said of his time with Washington so far. "I love these guys in this room. From top to bottom this organization has been phenomenal. It’s been a great start to the year for this team so I’ve been enjoying it."
The winning culture has also made it easy for Chychrun to fit in and put his skill on display.
"It’s great, feeling like every night we got a chance to win. Even when we don’t have our best stuff we’re finding ways together as a group in this room, and it’s been a lot of fun," Chychrun said.
As time goes on, the clear priority for the Capitals is trying to sign Chychrun to a long-term deal. It seems like something that the Florida native would be interested in based on his passion on and off the ice, and even told Sportsnet he sees himself re-signing.
That said, it won't be cheap, but Washington has some flexibility to work with going forward.
