The Washington Capitals said farewell to Connor McMichael on Tuesday, trading him to the St. Louis Blues as part of a package for Jordan Kyrou.
McMichael played six years with the organization after the Capitals selected him 25th overall in the 2019 NHL Draft. He admitted being surprised by the move during his first media with the Blues on Wednesday, speaking with team reporter Andy Strickland.
“I’m feeling great,” McMichael said. “I would say the first hour there was kind of a little bit of a shock. Obviously, processing everything, but the fact that it was the Blues and just knowing some guys on the team already, it’s already feeling easier. I’m really excited to get going.”
McMichael, a Calder Cup champion with the Hershey Bears in 2023, says he found out about the trade while golfing with his brother, getting a heads-up from his agent, David Gagner. While excited to join his new club, he also reflected positively on his time with the Capitals, particularly the relationship he formed with the legendary Alex Ovechkin.
“I was really fortunate in my time in Washington,” McMichael said. “I’ve played with quite a few of Hall of Fame caliber guys, especially my first couple years. I’d say, honestly, the biggest memories I’ll have in Washington are just living through those milestones with Ovi, getting to see him, just being alongside him through the ride, and getting to support him through that.
“It’s really a dream come true. I grew up obviously idolizing those guys like Ovi and Crosby, and the list goes on. But for me to be there when he broke the NHL record and just be his teammate was really special.”
McMichael won’t be starting with a blank slate when he arrives in St. Louis, as he is already well acquainted with star Blues center Robert Thomas from their junior days in the OHL, as well as Dylan Holloway and Joel Hofer from Team Canada events. His new teammates have already begun the welcoming process, reaching out to him after finding out the news themselves.
“A bunch of guys have already texted me and welcomed me to the team, and I can just already feel that vibe of how close-knit this group is,” McMichael said. “I think guys being around the same age, it’s going to help a lot. I’m sure a lot of guys share hobbies and whatever it may be when you’re that close in age. So, for me, I think it’s going to be a perfect fit, and I think I’ll gel with all the boys.”
As McMichael looks ahead to his future in St. Louis, his former teammates in Washington said goodbye, with many choosing to post on their Instagram Stories.
“💔💔🫂 gonna miss you so much,” said Martin Fehervary.
“Grew up together since the draft,” Aliaksei Protas wrote. “DC will miss ya, brother 😔. Best of luck in St. Louis! ❤️”
“Not many like 24 💔,” center Dylan Strome said.
“DC will miss ya, Mikey! ❤️” alternate captain Tom Wilson added. “Good luck, brother.”
McMichael is slated to be a restricted free agent on July 1 unless he and the Blues can negotiate a new contract before then.
