Capitals coach Adam Oates wants Tom Wilson to be part of the Capitals' opening game roster. Capitals GM George McPhee will make the final determination, but getting the head coaches public endorsement is huge. Wilson is battling for a roster spot after enjoying a three-game stint with the Capitals in 2013. "We need what he brings," Oates said. "We have some smaller guys in certain positions and he's a big, strong guy and that will always help." Wilson isn't eligible to play in the AHL yet, so he'll either play for the Capitals or OHL Plymouth Whalers.