The Washington Capitals have secured their goaltending situation for the foreseeable future, announcing on Monday, March 3, 2025, the signing of Charlie Lindgren to a three-year contract extension worth $9 million. This agreement guarantees Lindgren’s stay with the team through the 2027-28 season, alongside Logan Thompson, who signed a six-year extension just weeks prior.
Lindgren, 31, who joined the Capitals as a free agent in July 2022 and was making $1.1 million per year, expressed his excitement about the extension. "It feels really good to sign a three-year deal here. The business side is probably the toughest part of hockey. I think for everyone in this locker room, all they want to do is just play hockey and compete with their brothers and go and win hockey games," Lindgren stated. He went on to share his gratitude for the organization: "I think you guys all know how I feel about this place and the people here... it’s just a home run organization."
The Capitals have invested significantly in their goaltending, with Lindgren's and Thompson's contracts resulting in a combined salary cap hit of $8.85 million for the next three seasons. This shift marks a move away from the lowest goaltending combined cost in the NHL, which was under $2 million, to one of greater financial commitment to their netminding tandem. Team GM Chris Patrick emphasized the importance of this duo, stating, "With both goalies under contract for the next three seasons, we expect this tandem to provide our club stability at a pivotal position and push one another to compete and play at a high level."
Before signing Lindgren, the Capitals experienced uncertainty at the goaltending position. The team only had Clay Stevenson contracted beyond the current season, with last season's starter, Darcy Kuemper, traded to the Los Angeles Kings. To bolster their goalie lineup, Washington acquired Thompson from the Vegas Golden Knights, solidifying what has turned out to be a dynamic pairing.
"I was truly excited to talk to Chris about my future here,” Lindgren recalled about his conversation with Patrick after Thompson's extension. "He told me where I fit and how badly he wanted me to be part of the organization. I can’t tell you the amount of respect I have for him for allowing me to discuss my role.” Lindgren's partnership with Thompson has already shown promise, as both have pushed each other’s performances; Lindgren noted, "It’s the classic iron sharpens iron. He’s constantly pushing me to get even stronger; hopefully, I have done the same for him."
The Capitals’ commitment to their goaltending duo showcases their strategic planning moving forward. Coach Spencer Carbery acknowledges the strengths both players bring to the team, saying, "Both guys are such capable 1A goalies in this league. It gives us the luxury of being able to utilize both guys effectively and keep them fresh. It’s a huge luxury for us to have for the next three years.”
This past season, Lindgren proved pivotal to the Capitals' success, almost single-handedly leading them to the Stanley Cup playoffs through stellar performances. His notable achievement came on February 10, 2024, when he shut out the Boston Bruins, breaking the Capitals’ six-game losing streak. His resilience and performance under pressure deeply endeared him to the organization and its fans.
Teammate Tom Wilson expressed his happiness for Lindgren, humorously noting their close friendship as plane seatmates: "I was upset he didn’t tell me about it. I thought we were tighter than just being seatmates, but every guy is just so happy for him.” Wilson elaborated on Lindgren’s importance to the team, calling him "a tremendous friend and teammate" who deserves everything he’s earned. Wilson added, "He’s someone you can count on, knowing exactly what he brings to the locker room and the ice every night.”
According to the Capitals’ management, Lindgren's extension reflects their trust and commitment to his abilities as they seek to establish long-term stability at the goaltending position. Following consecutive contracts for Lindgren and Thompson, the Capitals are the only team along with the Boston Bruins, featuring two goaltenders under contract for at least the next three seasons.
Boston’s duo of Jeremy Swayman and Joonas Korpisalo, with their combined cap hit of $11.25 million, remains the highest across the league. The Capitals’ dedication to maintaining their competitive edge with Lindgren and Thompson signals confidence as they prepare to potentially challenge for the playoffs and beyond with their revamped goaltending lineup.
Beyond the financial aspect, Lindgren values the family-like environment of the Capitals organization, stating, "It truly is like family from top to bottom. I couldn’t be more thrilled to sign on for another three years here." With their top two goaltenders locked down, the Washington Capitals show their commitment to both developing talent and addressing team needs effectively, as they prepare for seasons filled with competitive hockey.