The Hershey Bears are entering a new era with a younger roster and debuting prospects Andrew Cristall and Ilya Protas, as they rebuild after recent championships, with new head coach Derek King leading the team.
The Washington Capitals made five selections on the second day of the 2023 NHL Draft, choosing left wing Andrew Cristall, center Patrick Thomas, defenseman Cam Allen, center Brett Hyland, and goaltender Antoine Keller. Cristall, ranked fifth among North American left wings, led his team in goals, assists, and points in the Western Hockey League. Thomas recorded 56 points in the Ontario Hockey League, while Allen ranked second in points among defensemen in the OHL. Hyland had a career-high 47 points in the WHL, and Keller played for Genève-Servette's U-20 team in Switzerland.