There have been many great centers to play for the Washington Capitals. But who were the best centerman to ever be drafted by Washington in their 52 years history? With the 2026 NHL draft coming up, and the Caps in need of a good young pivot or two, here are the 5 best centers to ever be drafted by the Capitals.
Here are the 5 best centers ever drafted by the Washington Capitals
5. Ryan Walter - 1978 (1st Round, 2nd overall)
Ryan Walter was the first real no. 1 center to play for the Caps. He scored 56 points his rookie year of 78-79 and put up a career high 87 points in 1981-82. He could not only score, but wasnt't afraid to throw down when needed. Walter is best known for being sent to Montreal with Rick Green in 1982 for Rod Langway, Doug Jarvis and Craig Laughlin. It was a franchise defining trade that turned Washington into a perennial playoff team. Walter played 15 seasons in the NHL, winning a Cup with the Canadiens in 1986 before playing his last game for Vancouver in 1992-93. Walter finished his career with 264 goals and 382 assists for 646 points in 1033 games.
