On the Washington Capitals …
Craig Custance of ESPN: Looking at the offseason focus for Capitals GM Brian MacLellan.
1. Don’t overreact to their disappointing finish – the worst thing to do would be to blow it up. They are set up for success for a couple more seasons.
“We’re going for it this year, we’re going for it next year and then after that, we’re evaluating where we’re at,” MacLellan told NHL.com in February.
2. Talk to Evgeny Kuznetsov about a contract extension – he signed a two-year bridge deal last offseason for $3 million a year. He can sign a long-term extension after July 1st.
3. Tinker with depth players – their core should stay together, but they need to address their lack of depth on the blueline.
On Jimmy Vesey …
Stephen Herris of the Boston Herald: Jimmy Vesey when asked if he wants to sign with the Bruins later this offseason.
“I think the Bruins will definitely be on my list of teams,” said the 22-year-old Vesey, who will become an unrestricted free agent Aug. 15.
There will be numerous teams interested in signing Vesey in August. There was local college hockey source who said in March that Vesey would sign with the Bruins.
“Growing up I was a huge Bruins fan,” Vesey said. “I wore No. 19 the last five years, which was inspired by Joe Thornton. He was always my favorite player.
“I saw the Bruins win the Stanley Cup in 2011. I think it’s any kid’s dream to play for his hometown team. I’m definitely going to want to hear what they have to say.”
Teams can start talking to Vesey on August 15th and they can all offer a two-year entry level contract at $925,000 per season with $2.85 million in potential bonuses.
“I’ll look at what a team has in terms of NHL roster, and also what it has in the prospect pool,” he said. “I’ll also be looking at the coaches and what style of play is going to fit me the best. The city, definitely. There’s a lot that’s going to go into it. I’m excited about it, and I can’t wait to see where I’m going to end up.”
