As of noon on Wednesday, July 13, a bunch of hockey dudes will become unrestricted free agents in need of new deals. The Washington Capitals have some specific needs that must be met, and together we are going to figure out how best to do it.

In this edition: a left-wing grinder.

But first, recall if you will our data-driven analysis of the Capitals needs, based on position, and measured by your bad vibes. Here’s the Capitals lineup, color-coded based on how worried we are — and therefore perhaps how interested the front office should be in shoring up that position.

Johan Larsson is an expiring UFA. If he were to re-sign, I could see him doing exactly what he did last season. I could even see him making some cameos at 3C if needed.

But if he and the Caps can’t make a deal, then a bottom-line winger is a not a player you should ever get excited about. They should be dull and comforting, like a rerun of Matlock. Just keep an eye out for marginal value on competent players.

So here are some free-agency options for a depth left winger:

Woof. This is a boring list. Just bring back Larsson, who is a stud.

Who do you like? Who did we miss?

Salary projections from Evolving-Hockey. Please consider joining us as subscribers.

Also in this series: Top-line right wing, Middle-six center, Depth left wing, Left-handed defender, Goalie

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