The Capitals had high hopes for Tom Wilson when they drafted him with the 16th overall pick in the 2012 entry draft. Following a strong showing with the Plymouth Whalers, and a productive preseason, Wilson was able to crack the 2013-14 Capitals roster. His first NHL season was a disaster. Adam Oates, in his infinite wisdom, played Wilson less than 8 minutes a game. Despite playing in all 82 games, Wilson only tallied 10 points.
When Barry Trotz took over head coaching duties in May of 2014 it didn’t take him long to zero in on Wilson as a potential difference maker:
“When Washington first hired Trotz, before Wilson fractured his fibula falling in Ontario, the new bench boss envisioned Wilson skating beside Alex Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom on the top line.