Contending Window Quickly Slamming Shut on Capitals and Alex Ovechkin

Three straight first-round exits in the Stanley Cup playoffs would be reason enough for any team to get introspective. The Washington Capitals, on the heels of a 4-1 series dismantling by the Boston Bruins, have to consider why they've failed to embark on a respectable playoff run since their 2018 Stanley Cup.

Yet General Manager Brian MacLellan's dilemma goes beyond recent results. This is not a run-of-the-mill offseason but rather one in which MacLellan needs to stare into the abyss and consider the team's long-term identity.

Captain Alexander Ovechkin is at the end of his 13-year contract signed in 2008 and will turn 36 before the start of next season. Time flies. The Capitals have to ask…