It is the first day of the NHL free-agency period, and the Washington Capitals are already taking it on the chin rather badly.
NHL.com reported earlier that Mike Ribeiro, one of the most consistent and solid performers for the Caps this past season, has signed a four-year, $22 million deal with the Phoenix Coyotes.
In other words, the Caps find themselves right back in the market for a second-line center after having just a one-year reprieve from the search that has gone on for several years now.
But the hits keep on coming.
NHL.com also reported that fan favorite Matt Hendricks is on his way to Nashville, along with Viktor Stalberg and Matt Cullen. Hendricks has apparently signed a four-year contract.
To make matters worse, one of the best free-agent centers available—and a man who could have been an excellent replacement for Ribeiro—Tyler Bozak re-signed with the Toronto Maple Leafs for five years and $21 million.
As for other viable second-line center options, another former Caps rival took away one of the better options when the Tampa Bay Lightning signed Valtteri Filppula to a five-year, $25 million ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Dave Ungar
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July 5th, 2013 by Dave Ungar Leave a reply »
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