The beginning of free agency has not been kind to the Washington Capitals.
Truth be told, it has been rather ugly.
Virtually right after free agency started, things started to go downhill for the Caps.
NHL.com first reported that Mike Ribeiro, one of the most consistent and solid performers for the Caps this past season, had signed a four-year, $22 million deal with the Phoenix Coyotes.
In other words, the Caps found themselves right back in the market for a second line center.
Then, NHL.com also reported that fan favorite Matt Hendricks was on his way to Nashville, along with Viktor Stalberg and Matt Cullen.
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 contract.
With the Caps needing a second line center to replac ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Dave Ungar
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July 9th, 2013 by Dave Ungar Leave a reply »
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