Jan 30, 2025; Ottawa, Ontario, CAN; Washington Capitals goalie Charlie Lindgren (79) makes a save in the first period against the Ottawa Senators at the Canadian Tire Centre. Mandatory Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

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Washington Capitals Negotiating Contract Extension with Charlie Lindgren

Washington Capitals aim to secure a long-term deal with goalie Charlie Lindgren as contract talks progress.

After securing a six-year, $35.1 million contract extension for goalie Logan Thompson, the Washington Capitals are now focused on keeping the other half of their goaltending duo, Charlie Lindgren, from hitting free agency. According to ESPN’s Kevin Weekes, the team is working on an extension for Lindgren, with a projected cap hit between $3.5 million and $4 million.

An official announcement is expected soon, given the team’s quick turnaround on Thompson’s deal. Capitals GM Chris Patrick has made it clear he doesn’t want any uncertainty affecting team chemistry, and Lindgren’s extension appears to be the next priority.

This new contract would mark a significant milestone for Lindgren, who will likely earn more per season than any previous NHL deal he’s signed. Now 31, Lindgren took the long road to becoming a dependable NHL goalie. After going undrafted, he started his pro career in 2016 with the Montreal Canadiens, spending most of his time as a backup or in the AHL. While his early numbers showed promise, consistency eluded him over the next few seasons.

CHARLIE LINDGREN ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!

Just as he was heading to the bench for the extra attacker, he cuts back and dives across like Superman to keep the puck out! 🦸‍♂️
pic.twitter.com/7FkDlMD3JJ
— Spittin' Chiclets (@spittinchiclets) January 26, 2025

In 2021, Lindgren joined the St. Louis Blues, where he revitalized his career. Dominating in the AHL, he posted a 2.21 goals-against average (GAA), a .925 save percentage (SV%), and a stellar 24-7-1 record. His performance during NHL call-ups was just as strong, earning him a spotless 5-0-0 record with the Blues.

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Washington saw his potential and signed him to a three-year, $3.3 million deal. His first season as Darcy Kuemper’s backup was average at best, but Lindgren truly broke out in 2023-24. Seizing the starter’s role midseason, he tied for the league lead with six shutouts, recorded a .911 SV%, and helped the Capitals sneak into the playoffs. While the team was eliminated in the first round, Lindgren’s performance earned him Vezina Trophy consideration and solidified his place as a key player.

This season, Lindgren has settled into a strong tandem role behind Thompson. In 23 games, he’s posted a .904 SV% and a 2.51 GAA—solid numbers given Washington’s defense. While his previous season’s performance may have been a high point, he’s proven himself to be a reliable option for the Caps.

By signing Lindgren and Thompson, the Capitals are locking in their goaltending duo for around $9 million per season—a cost-effective strategy compared to paying for a single elite starter. With goaltending taken care of, GM Chris Patrick can now shift his focus to other key pending free agents, including defenseman Jakob Chychrun and center Nic Dowd.

Image Credit: Marc DesRosiers-Imagn Images

Charlie Lindgren

NHL

Washington Capitals

Anamika Shrivastava

nhl

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