Washington Capitals: Five Bargain Bin Free Agents To Consider

Washington Capitals Should Consider Stephen Weiss

Mandatory Credit: Rick Osentoski-USA TODAY Sports

Stephen Weiss has had trouble staying healthy over the years, hence why he was bought out recently by the Detroit Red Wings. However, if he lowers his price to about a $1,000,000 to $2,000,000 salary on a one year “show me” deal, he could be a great fit for the Washington Capitals. In 52 games last season for Detroit, Weiss scored 25 points (16 at even strength) in 590 minutes of playing time (473.9 minutes at even strength). 

On paper, that might not look impressive. However, his rate stats were actually quite good. He averaged 2.1 points per 60 minutes at even strength (0.8 goals with 1.3 assists). That would have actually led the Washington Capitals forward group last season. I think that Weiss could add even more offense to the Caps bottom six.

However, there are some concerns about Weiss. Obviously, there’s his health. The past three seasons, he’s played a combined 95 games. The last time he played over 53 games was in 2011-2012. Secondly, there’s his defense. Weiss has never been that strong defensively. The way Trotz likes to use his bottom six is in more defensive roles, though that will likely change somewhat this season. Weiss’s Fenwick Against and Corsi Against numbers have never been that good. They weren’t even good when he played with Detroit.

Probably my biggest concern with Weiss is his puck possession numbers. The Washington Capitals have to improve as far as puck possession numbers. Signing Weiss, whose teams have had significantly better possession numbers without him on the ice than they did with him on the ice in every season since 2009-2010, would not be wise in that regard.

Next: Mike Santorelli