The Washington Capitals were in need of a third-line right winger after Brett Connolly reportedly is expected to sign with the Florida Panthers Monday. Just as news broke of Connolly’s decision, the Capitals agreed to a four-year pact with forward Richard Panik, according to Bob McKenzie of TSN.
Panik is set to make an annual average of $2.65 million with the deal, according to Brian McNally of NBC Sports Washington.
Panik will slot at RW alongside center Lars Eller and left winger Carl Hagelin.
Connolly had a career-year in 2018-19 posting 22 goals and 24 assists. Panik last season with the Arizona Coyotes posted 33 points — 14 goals and 19 assists — in 75 games.
Panik’s best season in his NHL career occurred in 2016-17 when he posted 22 goals and 22 assists with the Chicago Blackhawks. However, his production dropped just below the following two seasons with 35 and 33 points, respectively.
Connolly priced out of the Capitals’ range, as they are set to turn their attention to Jakub Vrana and Chandler Stephenson.
The Capitals have reshuffled their forward lineup, trading Andre Burakovsky for a second and third round pick in 2020. With Connolly out and Panik in, the forwards grouping will look different beyond the top two lines.
