(Photo:NHL)

We are now smack dab in the middle of the wheeling and dealing that is tradition each late June and July in the NHL. As a result, the Capitals announced the release of three free agents today. (Edward Pasquale, Brandon Anderson and Patrick Wey).  The Capitals’ “plan” is slowly unfolding, with key free agents receiving qualifying offers by yesterday’s  deadline.  One name that has not been mentioned is Unrestricted Free Agent (UFA) Steve Oleksy.

Oleksy is one, if not the definition of a “middle of the road” guy.  The Capitals would probably like to retain Steve, but as you know by now, the remaining budget is extremely tight.  Oleksy provides the Capitals a solid backup Defenseman, who also provides a layer of Grit. However, without the key signings of Holtby, Kuznetsov and Johansson, the Capitals are unsure what money will be available to sign second-tier players, most notably Steve Oleksy.

So what are the chances Steve Oleksy stays with the Capitals franchise? It will probably be up to Steve.  Surely the Capitals will eventually extend an offer to Steve. The question is when, or will it happen before July 1 (Free Agency), and will Oleksy accept, or does he have his sights on a new contract with a new team. We will know shortly, but for the time being, all things are quiet on the Oleksy front.