Where Justin Sourdif Could Start The Season For The Capitals

The Washington Capitals finally got hold of a player they'd been trying to get for years, acquiring prospect Justin Sourdif from the Florida Panthers.

After a few years of developing in the AHL and only playing a handful of NHL games, Sourdif is expected to finally make the full-time transition to the Show this season. Where exactly will he draw in, though?

The 23-year-old is a versatile player who can play the center or wing, and is known for his good hands, playmaking ability and wicked shot. He has all the skills to be a difference maker, and now, it's just about putting it all together and finding consistency.

Sourdif had 34 points in 43 regular-season games with the Charlotte Checkers this past season, while also helping them to the Calder Cup Final with 10 points in 18 playoff games. He also scored his first NHL goal in the only game he played up with the big club this season.

When it comes to finding his place in the lineup, the Capitals can envision multiple avenues for Sourdif to draw in.

General manager Chris Patrick hasn't ruled out giving Sourdif a chance to show what he can do at the center position, though the only vacant spot is at 3C, and that job is Connor McMichael's to lose. That said, the right wing appears more likely.

When it comes to what line, it could be reasonable to start him on the powerhouse fourth line with Nic Dowd and Brandon Duhaime. It would give him two linemates who are aggressive on the forecheck and can carry the play up ice, while also playing a solid two-way game.

That trio, despite the "fourth line" moniker, gets a lot of ice time, too, and having Sourdif join the mix can add a bit more of an offensive spark there.

All in all, coach Spencer Carbery has multiple options at his disposal, and Sourdif will certainly lay it all on the line for the chance to be a full-time NHLer, a dream he's been working toward since working his way up the ranks.