In Episode 11 of NHL Wraparound, hosts Neil Smith and Vic Morren sit down with Craig Laughlin, former NHL forward and current Washington Capitals TV analyst, for a thoughtful conversation about the Capitals' performance, playoff prospects, and the evolution of broadcasting and hockey culture.

Laughlin reflects on his NHL career, shares fun behind-the-scenes stories about Alexander Ovechkin, and offers insights on the Capitals’ current roster, goaltending challenges, and how the coaching staff has adapted to injuries to players like Nicklas Backstrom and T.J. Oshie.

The episode also tackles the recent controversy surrounding Zach Hyman’s 50-goal milestone, addressing criticisms of privilege in hockey and the deeper conversation around character, work ethic, and earning success at the highest level.

They also examine John Hynes’ decision to pull the goalie in overtime, sparking debate over the risks and historical precedent of the move.

The episode concludes with The Human Side of the Story, celebrating Hyman’s journey and honoring the diverse paths players take to achieve greatness.

IN THIS EPISODE:

[00:45] One-Timers: MVP races and potential award winners

[05:05] Craig Laughlin joins the show: career reflections and Capitals commentary

[14:40] Evaluating Washington’s playoff positioning

[21:45] Goaltending performance: Darcy Kuemper and Charlie Lindgren

[23:54] Washington’s playoff strategy and remaining schedule

[25:49] Capitals' key contributors and rebuilding outlook

[27:27] Prospects like Ryan Leonard and future team impact

[29:01] Ovechkin’s legacy and locker room culture

[35:03] The joy of broadcasting and keeping the game fun

[38:26] Goalies pulled in OT: risk vs reward

[42:52] Human Side of the Story: Hyman’s 50-goal season and the conversation around privilege

KEY TAKEAWAYS:

• Craig Laughlin offers an insider view into the Washington Capitals’ culture, resilience, and how the team is evolving during a critical stretch.
• Ovechkin’s presence continues to shape the team both on and off the ice, especially in times of adversity.
• The controversial conversation around Zach Hyman’s background is met with firm support for merit-based success in the NHL.
• Strategic coaching moves, including pulling the goalie in OT, prompt lively debate over tradition, analytics, and innovation.

LISTEN & SUBSCRIBE:

Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and all major platforms.

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgBj1LV0-DMfBhcRPSJZLjA

X: https://twitter.com/NHLWraparound

Neil Smith: https://twitter.com/NYCNeil

Vic Morren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vic-morren-7038737/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nhlwraparound/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nhlwraparound

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61555451139787

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ABOUT CRAIG LAUGHLIN:

Craig Laughlin, born September 14, 1957, is a former NHL right winger and current TV color analyst for the Washington Capitals on Monumental Sports Network. Laughlin played for the Montreal Canadiens, Capitals, Los Angeles Kings, and Toronto Maple Leafs between 1981 and 1989, bringing depth, grit, and leadership to every locker room he entered.

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