Golden Knights Acquire Center Nic Dowd in Trade with Capitals

Vegas sends goaltender Jesper Vikman, 2027 3rd-round pick, and 2029 2nd-round pick to Washington

Published on Mar. 5, 2026

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The Vegas Golden Knights have acquired veteran center Nic Dowd from the Washington Capitals in a trade. In exchange, the Golden Knights are sending goaltender Jesper Vikman, a 2027 third-round draft pick, and a 2029 second-round draft pick to the Capitals.

Why it matters

The addition of Dowd provides the Golden Knights with additional depth at center as they await the return of injured star William Karlsson. Dowd's defensive abilities and physical presence will help bolster Vegas's fourth line.

The details

Dowd, 35, has 4 goals, 12 assists, and 113 hits in 55 games for the Capitals this season. He is under contract through the 2026-27 season. The trade allows the Golden Knights to shift star winger Mitch Marner to his natural position on the wing.

  • The trade was announced on Thursday, March 5, 2026.

The players

Nic Dowd

A 35-year-old center who has played for the Washington Capitals this season, providing depth and physical play on the fourth line.

Jesper Vikman

A goaltender for the Vegas Golden Knights who is being traded to the Washington Capitals as part of the deal.

William Karlsson

A star center for the Vegas Golden Knights who is currently sidelined with a lower-body injury.

Mitch Marner

A star winger for the Vegas Golden Knights who will be able to shift to his natural position on the wing with the addition of Nic Dowd.

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What they’re saying

“The addition of Nic Dowd gives us some valuable depth and experience as we make a push for the playoffs.”

— Kelly McCrimmon, General Manager, Vegas Golden Knights (news3lv.com)

What’s next

The Golden Knights will look to integrate Dowd into their lineup as they continue their quest for a playoff berth.

The takeaway

This trade demonstrates the Golden Knights' commitment to building a well-rounded roster with depth at key positions as they aim to make a deep playoff run this season.