Next up on our report card series is Jakob Chychrun
Jakob Chychrun is another new defenseman who made his name known among the Washington Capitals this season. He was traded by the Ottawa Senators to the Caps on July 1 of last year for Nick Jensen and a 2026 third rounder.
This was a significant upgrade from Jensen. Chychrun would finish with 20 goals and 27 assists for 47 points as well as a plus/minus of +17. He also averaged 21:04 minutes of ice time and had 87 blocks and 59 hits.
He played outstanding throughout the season and he was rewarded by general manager Chris Patrick in the form of an eight year, $72 million contract extension. He said at the time of signing the contract:
"I think this has just been such a great experience and it was something that if there was a number we were comfortable with, we were more than happy to stay and not test free agency. So, I'm really happy with things went and getting something done as we get towards the end of the season here and not have to think about it going into the playoffs. Just be able to go out and do everything we can to win. "Jakob Chychrun
Chychrun was also clutch as he led all defenseman with six game winning goals. He spent the bulk of the time getting heavy minutes and he gives the Caps another offensive threat on defense that isn't John Carlson.
Chychrun finished with a 52.20 percent corsi for percentage, a 48.72 percent expected goals for percentage and a 49.77 percent high danger chances for percentage in the regular season per Natural Stat Trick.
The advanced stats dipped in the postseason with a corsi for percentage of 40.39 percent, a 49.58 percent expected goals for percentage and a 55.13 percent high danger chances for percentage.
Grade A+: Jakob Chychrun was a home run trade acquisition over the summer. He proved it in his first season with the Caps and is now here for eight more years.
