With many Capitals boasting considerable postseason experience, Chandler Stephenson is one of few players on Washington's roster without Stanley Cup Playoff exposure. That will soon change with Stephenson expected to make his playoff debut in the team's first-round series against the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Despite never dressing for an NHL playoff game, Stephenson has been steadily introduced to the grinding style typically played during the postseason as Washington chased it's third-straight Metropolitan Division title late into the regular season. It's an experience he expects will help him get acclimated quickly.

"We've been playing playoff hockey and playoff-style games, so it's been good and it'll be fun," Stephenson said. "I'm excited to get going."

Stephenson, Washington's third-round selection at the 2012 NHL Draft, will also benefit from his substantial AHL playoff experience while with the Hershey Bears. In 39 career playoff games with Hershey, Stephenson notched 16 points (5g, 11a), including six points (1g, 5a) during the Bears' run to the 2016 Calder Cup Final.

During his first full year in the NHL this season, Stephenson developed into a versatile and defensively-responsible player and was frequently deployed by Barry Trotz in different situations, including the penalty kill. Stephenson logged 87:20 of shorthanded time on ice this season, the fifth-most among Capitals forwards.

As always, special teams will be paramount for all teams competing for the Stanley Cup. Against Columbus, Stephenson's effectiveness as a penalty killer will be valued by the Capitals.

Throughout the course of his inaugural NHL season, Stephenson absorbed as much as he could, often learning from experience. He plans to do the same during his first playoff run.

"The whole year has been a dream come true. I've been soaking in everything with every day that goes by. It's been awesome, I mean just being a sponge since I've been here and trying to learn as much as I can."