With Tom Poti’s future uncertain with groin injuries, the Capitals needed another defenseman – preferably a veteran – to fill the void. They picked that guy up Friday afternoon in the form of Roman Hamrlik.
Hamrlik, who was the first overall pick in 1992, is 37 years old. The Caps signed him to a two-year deal that TSN reported was worth $7 million.
He spent the past four seasons with the Canadiens, never appearing in fewer than 75 games. The Caps have blamed injuries on the blue line for their sweep at the hands of the Lightning, so adding a durable defenseman in Hamrlik should go a long way toward ensuring history doesn’t repeat itself.
Hamrlik had five goals and 29 assists last season with Montreal. His signing likely seals the deal for Scott Hannan to be gone.
