NHL insider Elliotte Friedman reported on Wednesday that the Washington Capitals are trying to move salary cap money in order to re-sign defenseman Brenden Dillon.
In his regular “31 Thoughts” column, Friedman stated the Capitals efforts to re-sign Dillon now include moving existing salary cap space in order to keep the unrestricted free agent in Washington.
“17. Washington is trying to move money to keep Brenden Dillon.”
Dillon was acquired by the Capitals from the San Jose Sharks at this years trade deadline in exchange for a 2020 second-round pick and a conditional third-round pick in 2021. The Sharks retained 50% of his $3.27 million cap hit for the rest of the season.
The Capitals have acquired defenseman Brenden Dillon from the San Jose Sharks. Dillon brings 588 career games of NHL experience to the Capitals’ blue line. He ranked second among San Jose defensemen with a 51.70 shot attempt percentage this season. pic.twitter.com/XrIqCo6cUv
— CapitalsPR (@CapitalsPR) February 18, 2020
Dillon made $3,2700,000 on his previous five-year deal with the Sharks, so it’s safe to assume he will be looking for anywhere from $3,500,000 to $4,000,000 in his next NHL contract.
“I’m happy with being a Washington Capital,” the 29-year-old defenseman said in a Zoom call back in mid-July. He likes the fit with the Capitals and has felt that way since day one when the trade with San Jose occurred. Dillon is fond of the system and overall chemistry the team has and praised training camp for getting “more acclimated” with the Capitals.
“I think over the last couple weeks, months, I’ve definitely gotten a lot closer with a few of the guys,” Dillon said in reference to having a chance to bond with his fellow teammates, “Bought myself an Xbox…having a couple tee times with a few of the guys during the weeks.”
Dillon was all smiles discussing how much the Capitals team is an “awesome place to be”. He praised the guys for making him feel welcome since the February trade. As mentioned, Dillon is a pending UFA. “Mutual talks amongst my agents and Brian [GM Brian MacLellan] are confidential with them…for me as a player, and being part of the Caps, it’s been awesome, and hopefully I can be here.”
By Jon Sorensen