Just days after -re-signing top-line right wing T.J. Oshie to a massive eight-year contract, the Capitals have inked fellow right wing Brett Connolly to a two-year, $3 million contract, per TSN’s Bob McKenzie. The team did not extend a qualifying offer to the former first-round pick (sixth overall in 2010) and it was reported that the two sides were making progress on a new deal.

Signed by the Capitals last summer to a one-year, $850,000 free agent contract, Connolly set a career-high in goals with 15 and second-best total of 23 points. While he started the season playing only in spurts, Connolly eventually earned himself a spot on the Caps’ third-line, and saw his playing time and offensive production increase. In his first season with the Capitals, Connolly had a career-high 18.5 shooting percentage and revived his career on a high-scoring Caps team.

Despite his strong regular season, Connolly disappeared in the playoffs, as he played only seven games, scoring no points, and finishing the playoffs with a plus/minus rating of minus-2. Connolly’s signing gives the Capitals an experienced forward that is capable of playing on the third line. With veteran right wing Justin Williams likely headed for the free agent market, Connolly’s re-signing is a smart and cost-effective move for the Caps to make.

By Michael Fleetwood