Tim Gleason and Curtis Glencross joined the Washington Capitals on consecutive days, shipped from franchises either bordering on the playoff chase or banished from it outright, feeling refreshed about the opportunity to join a contender. Glencross arrived after the Calgary Flames asked him to waive his no-trade clause and he tabbed the Capitals among his favorable destinations. Gleason came from the Carolina Hurricanes, which dealt his expiring contract for defenseman Jack Hillen and a draft pick. Neither had tasted the postseason in six years, except from the bitterness of their couches.
“You play all year for this,” Glencross said.