Washington Capitals: Dan Hamhuis worth a look
By Ron Juckett
Although the Washington Capitals are looking younger at the blue-line, Dan Hamhuis is on the market if they need a vet. Here is a closer look.
If the Washington Capitals sign a veteran defender, while not re-signing Brooks Orpik, then unrestricted free agent Dan Hamhuis is a solid option.
Hamhuis turns 36 in November and ranks 24th on the Pro Hockey Rumors Top 50 Unrestricted Free Agent list. A 14-year veteran, he spent the last two seasons with the Dallas Stars and still lays close to 20 minutes a night.
The Caps expect to use Christian Djoos and Madison Bowey as the third-pair on defense this season. Both are young and eager but lack major experience. Also, defense is a position where Washington lacks depth in reserves. Aaron Ness is a possibility and Jakub Jerabek remains on the market.
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Lucas Johansen, Washington’s first-rounder from 2016, is only 20, and he seems a better fit for a second season with AHL Hershey then jammed into service in DC. At 6’2, he weighs 182 pounds. He must put on a few to survive a full NHL season.
Orpik remains probably the best option if the Caps go after a veteran. After all, he helped them win a Stanley Cup.
But, Hamhuis is a year younger and still can kill penalties. With Washington’s solid defensive core, he would fit into whatever system new head coach Todd Reirden wants to install. As with Orpik, Hamhuis could double as an on-ice coach where Djoos and Bowey can learn on the fly from.
Stalwarts Dmitry Orlov, Michal Kempny and Matt Niskanen could soak up Hamhuis’ knowledge too. On a one-year deal, he could make a huge difference as Washington defends their championship.
Hamhuis can still deliver a hit when needed, but he has not topped 100 since 2011-12. He is a good shot-blocker, deflecting 113 last year and 100 two years ago.
He has deep playoff experience. Hamhuis was with Vancouver in 2011 when they lost to the Boston Bruins in the Finals.
Drafted by the Nashville Predators 12th overall in 2001, Hamhuis is familiar with Barry Trotz-style hockey. Although the coach moved to Long Island, the tactics will not change much. If you are worried about durability, he has 1031 NHL games to his credit over 14 seasons and missed three the last two seasons.
Again, expect the Washington Capitals to trust who they have, or go after Orpik. But, if the price is right, Dan Hamhuis is an upgrade over Orpik that is younger. Given the chance to skate for a contender, he would be a hungry player too.