Washington Capitals: The curious case of Devante Smith-Pelly

Although the Washington Capitals want Devante Smith-Pelly back, they did not tender him a contract. Here is why and more on their continuing talks.

In a mild surprise Monday, the Washington Capitals did not tender Devante Smith-Pelly a contract offer. If both sides do not agree by Saturday night, the winger becomes an unrestricted free agent.

With $13 million in cap space, Washington has the money to get a deal done. But, it must be on their terms.

By avoiding an offer sheet, the Caps get out of an arbitration hearing with Smith-Pelly. As you know, he scored seven goals during the playoffs including the game-tying one in the Game 5 Cup clincher.

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Smith-Pelly broke through this spring and wants more money. If tendered, the judge could set a two-year deal based on Smith-Pelly’s demand. Washington did not think that was prudent.

And there lies the paradox of Smith-Pelly. He has reached his ceiling as a fourth-line winger, but his Stanley Cup run makes him a folk hero within Caps fandom. Washington understands hockey is a business. Fans want to see all their heroes return.

Both sides have valid points.

Smith-Pelly’s seven goals were a huge reason Washington secured the Cup. He is a feel-good story. A grinder of a player who makes a difference at the best time. You cannot get more American than that. Why not keep him around?

Although Washington wants him, Smith-Pelly is a journeyman player with a weak shot. There are dozens of players like him on the open market or waiting in the AHL for their chance in the spotlight. He is replaceable.

But, hockey is still a gate-driven league. It is hard to imagine fans not filling up Capital One Arena next fall. However, you do not want to mess with the goodwill of your fans. These are the decisions that hanging in the back of heads. Whether Smith-Pelly deserves a deal, you want him back.

A deal should happen. With Tom Wilson, Smith-Pelly is a messenger of hits, dishing 151 in the regular season and 78 in the playoffs. He can be a double-digit goal scorer while playing roughly 13 minutes a night. Again, no one insists he is destined for enshrinement in Toronto. But, he is more than a nameless back end forward.

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The Washington Capitals may soften on a two-year deal if Devante Smith-Pelly takes a smaller annual pay raise. Anywhere from $800,000 to $1 million should get it done. The Caps would pay above market value while he would eat a small discount staying. A win-win for him and the fans.

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