Charlie Lindgren Set to Start Against Kings, Reflects on Breakout Season

Charlie Lindgren is slated to start in goal for the Washington Capitals against the Los Angeles Kings on Monday. Lindgren experienced a remarkable 2023-24 season, earning Vezina and Hart trophy votes with a 26-16-7 record, a 2.67 goals-against average, and a .911 save percentage, which was instrumental in the Capitals reaching the postseason. This breakout performance at age 30 has raised expectations, though the team's acquisition of Logan Thompson suggests a potential platoon situation. Lindgren's previous season with the Capitals saw mixed results (13-11-3, 3.05 GAA, .899 SV%) as a backup to Darcy Kuemper. Earlier in his career, he signed a three-year, $3.3 million deal with Washington after a strong performance with the Canadiens where he posted a 5-0-0 record with a 1.22 GAA and .958 save percentage. His fantasy outlook has been impacted by team changes and depth charts throughout his career, including his time with the Montreal Canadiens where he was once considered an heir apparent to Carey Price but faced competition and AHL struggles.