The Washington Capitals reportedly checked in on one of the top defensemen believed to be available in advance of Monday's trade deadline.

According to Sportsnet's Elliotte Friedman, the Capitals took a look at Ryan McDonagh of the New York Rangers, but they seem to have moved on.

Washington, however, continues to explore adding to the blue line even after acquiring Michal Kempny and Jakub Jerabek.

McDonagh is an intriguing trade candidate as he's not considered a rental player. He has one full season remaining on a contract that carries a cap hit of $4.7 million.