The Washington Capitals have done an impressive job building up their defensive depth going into next season, but when it comes to up-and-comers, keep an eye on Vincent Iorio.
While Dylan McIlrath and Declan Chisholm are expected to serve as the extra defensemen this coming season, Iorio has an important opportunity this season to try and take a step forward.
The 22-year-old is coming off a bit of an up-and-down year with the AHL's Hershey Bears, where he picked up five goals and 15 assists for 20 points in 67 games, along with a plus/minus of minus-4 while mainly logging top-4 minutes. He's shown a ton of upside and positive development, though, with his skating and vision showing improvement as the years have gone on.
And, when it comes to the depth chart, Iorio's in a great spot. After Ethan Bear and Chase Priskie departed this summer, he's moved up right behind the top three RHD, putting him in a prime position for a call-up should the team need more insurance on the right side.
It's also important for Iorio, regardless of where he ends up playing, to try and break out a bit more this season with it being the final year of his contract before he becomes a restricted free agent.
His puck-moving ability and two-way play make him a solid asset to have on the right side, and the 6-foot-4 defenseman also uses his size to his advantage and doesn't shy away from puck battles. Add in his wicked shot, and he's well on his way to a promising career.
In the end, opportunities on defense may be hard to come by with Washington having shored up the blue line, but watch for Iorio to make the most of his time.
