Cristall Turns Heads with Scorching Preseason Performance - Deserves to Make Capitals Roster Out of Training Camp
Andrew Cristall is once again putting his best foot forward towards making the Washington Capitals out of training camp.
The 20-year-old winger found his way onto the scoresheet once again in the Capitals’ 4-3 preseason win against the Columbus Blue Jackets on Tuesday night. Cristall’s power-play goal in the first period was his second of this year’s preseason in three games, giving him four goals in seven career NHL exhibition matchups.
Cristall converted in Columbus after collecting a loose puck that had bounced off of Connor McMichael, slipping a backhand shot past Blue Jackets goaltender Jet Greaves. Both of his goals this fall have come with the Capitals up a man.
Cristall, who also recorded the shootout winner for the Capitals in their 3-2 win over the New Jersey Devils last weekend, skated on the team’s third line with Hendrix Lapierre and Sheldon Rempal against the Blue Jackets. He received 15:49 of ice time, tallying four individual shot attempts, three individual scoring chances, three individual high-danger chances, two shots on goal, and two hits.
The British Columbia native is now tied for second on the team in goals this fall with two, sitting behind just Sonny Milano (4). Over the past two preseasons, only Milano (7) and Hendrix Lapierre (6) have recorded more points than Cristall (5).
Cristall’s path to the pros is much different this year, as even if he doesn’t make the Capitals out of training camp, he doesn’t have to return to the WHL like he did last season. While his ultimate goal will be to start in the NHL, the team can freely send him to the AHL’s Hershey Bears and recall him whenever they want throughout the year.
In his last junior season split between the Kelowna Rockets and Spokane Chiefs, Cristall led the entire WHL in scoring. He recorded 132 points (48g, 84a) in 57 regular-season games, later posting 41 points (21g, 20a) in 19 playoff games for the Chiefs.
Cristall is in the midst of a tough battle for the final few roster spots on the Capitals, matching up against a strong group that includes Milano, Lapierre, Ivan Miroshnichenko, Ethen Frank, and others. Unlike three of those names, Cristall is waiver-exempt, meaning he could be one of the odd men out sent to the AHL, simply because the team does not want to lose an asset to another NHL team for free.
“Guys that are fighting for spots are playing at a real high level,” head coach Spencer Carbery said last week. “And as a coach, as an organization, that’s what you want to see. They’re prepared. They’re ready for this moment. They want to earn a spot on this team. And, and they’re going and showing that out on the ice right now. And that’s, yeah, you just go down the list of the guys that are, that are fighting for their role on this team, they’re playing at a real high level.”
He added, “There’s going to be some really, really difficult decisions.”
NHL teams must set their 23-man opening-day rosters by 5 pm on October 7. The Capitals open their regular season at home against the Boston Bruins on October 8.
Deshaun Watson Reflects on Recovery Process: ‘I’m All-In on Getting Back to 100%’
Deshaun Watson, quarterback for the Cleveland Browns, has spoken about his ongoing recovery from a recurring
“I’m focused on my recovery right now,” Watson said. “I know it’s a process, but I’m committed to doing whatever it takes to get back to 100%. Right now, it’s all about staying patient, sticking to the rehab, and making sure I’m fully ready when the time comes. I’m also staying involved with the team, making sure I’m supporting my teammates, and being a part of the game plan.”
Watson’s message highlights his resilience and determination to return stronger than before, despite the setback.
Watson’s Mindset: ‘I’m Here for the Team, No Matter What’
While Watson remains focused on his recovery, he emphasized that his commitment to the team is unwavering. “I’m here for my teammates,” Watson explained. “Even though I’m not on the field right now, I’m still involved in the meetings, the film sessions, and doing everything I can to support the guys. We’re all in this together, and I’m going to keep doing my part to help us win, even if it’s not on the field at the moment.”
Watson’s dedication to staying engaged with the team despite not playing is a testament to his leadership and team-first attitude.
Looking Ahead: ‘I’m Ready to Come Back Stronger’
Despite the uncertainty around his return date, Watson remains focused on the future. “I know the road ahead isn’t easy, but I’m ready to come back stronger than before,” he said. “I’m taking it one day at a time, and when I’m back on that field, I’ll be ready to lead this team to victory. I’m not rushing the process; I just want to make sure I’m healthy and ready to go.”
Watson’s patience and understanding of the importance of his health show his long-term commitment to his career and the success of the Browns.
Final Thoughts: ‘This is Part of My Journey, and I’ll Come Back Stronger’
Watson ended with a hopeful message: “This is just another chapter in my journey. I’m going through a setback, but I’ll come out of it stronger. I’m working hard every day to get back to the field, and I’m confident that when I do, I’ll be at my best.”
Watson’s determination and focus on his recovery demonstrate his commitment to returning and leading the Browns back to success.
