Barreling toward an arbitration decision with their starting goaltender, a less-than-ideal scenario for both sides, the Washington Capitals instead settled on a five-year, $30.5 million deal with Braden Holtby on Friday afternoon, less than one day before the deadline for an independent ruling. Holtby had asked for $8 million in Thursday’s arbitration hearing, while the Capitals filed for $5.1 million. Think of it like the extreme upper limit at the edge of reason.
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Braden Holtby didn’t get the million he was asking in arbitration, but that wasn’t expected.
I really can’t see there being any division over this, and I’m sure Holtby’s teammates are still patting him on the back from his performance last season.
“Braden emerged as a top National Hockey League goaltender and we are pleased to sign him to a long-term contract”, said GM Brian MacLellan.
In many regards, Holtby is worth every penny of this deal, especially considering those numbers.
Essentially, Holtby gave up the short-term gains of a one-year contract for the security of a five-year deal that will carry a substantial raise over the $2 million he earned last season.
In the 2014-15 playoffs, Holtby led all goalies with a. 944 save percentage and 1.71 goals against average in 13 games.
According to Alex Prewitt of the Washington Post, the Capitals have elected for a one-year award. He will reportedly follow with a salary of $7 million in 2016-17 and 2017-18 and $5 million in 2018-19 and 2019-20. Anointed the unquestioned full-time starter over the summer by Coach Barry Trotz, a welcome departure from the chaotic netminding situation of years past, Holtby responded by matching franchise records for appearances (72), wins (41) and shutouts (nine). Coincidentally, Bernier’s worst season as a pro (2011-12, .909 save percentage, 2.36 GAA) was the year he won the Stanley Cup as a backup for Quick on the Los Angeles Kings.
Perhaps, with new general manager Lou Lamoriello in charge, the two sides will be able to avoid a hearing.
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July 31 – Jonathan Bernier (Toronto).
