Ethen Frank

February 2024 – Frank has continued to be a top player for Hershey in the AHL, as he is second on the team in points (35), goals (21), and first in power play goals (10). His shots are down from last season, 3.26 to 2.44, as more defenses hone in on him. Frank’s points per game has also slightly dropped from 0.86 to 0.78, but the team depends on him in all situations much more frequently. Depending how Washington’s seasons finishes, and the direction they take at the trade deadline, Frank may get a few games to end the season. Pat Quinn

September 2023 – Frank did not make the NHL roster but that can be because the Capitals likely want to see if he can continue his upward trajectory in the AHL. It will be a big season for Frank considering his NHL or AHL future. Pat Quinn

July 2023 – Frank wrapped up his first Hershey season with 49 points in 57 games. His 30 goals lead the Bears, all AHL rookies, and was a good enough total to finish tied for seventh in league goal scoring. He really broke out in his first year in the AHL with his goal scoring and speed, as he set the AHL skills competition record with a time of 12.915 seconds. The issue for Frank was his playoff production as he really fell off with six points, and four healthy scratches, in 16 games. This can likely be contributed to fatigue as he never played more than 40 games in his five NCAA seasons. Lucky for the Bears, Frank scored his only goals in the finals versus Coachella Valley. Frank was rewarded by the Capitals with a one-year, two-way NHL contract that has a high minors salary, and once the deal is over he will still be a RFA. This is likely to make sure Frank is not a flash in the pan, and could potentially have an NHL future. In the 2024-25 season, the Capitals will potentially have more room on the roster and Frank could be a dark horse middle-six forward. Pat Quinn

March 2023 – Frank has exploded on the scene in Hershey this season currently sitting third in points with 41 in 45 games. After five seasons in the NCAA he signed a PTO with Hershey, and then later signed a one-year AHL deal with Hershey. What he did was that is earn himself a one-year two-way deal with the Washington Capitals as he may push his way on to the roster in 2023-24. There is always hesitation when older players are signed and produced, so an extra season to see if he is for real would be best. If you can quietly add him there may be a legit top six forward here in time, but remain cautious because of history with older players. Pat Quinn