1996–97 Washington Capitals season
The 1996–97 Washington Capitals season was the team's 23rd season of play. The Capitals finished fifth in the division, and ninth in the conference, and failed to make the playoffs for the first time since 1982. It was their last full season playing at USAir Arena. Playoffs. The Capitals missed the playoffs for the first time for the since 1982 due to injuries. Draft picks. Washington's draft picks at the 1996 NHL Entry Draft held at the Kiel Center in St. Louis, Missouri.