The Hockey News: Headlines: Washington Capitals re-sign forwards Sergei Fedorov and Brooks Laich

Washington Capitals re-sign forwards Sergei Fedorov and Brooks Laich

2008-07-09 11:00:00

ARLINGTON, Va. - The Washington Capitals re-signed a pair of key forwards Wednesday, agreeing to a US$4-million, one-year contract with veteran Sergei Fedorov and locking up Brooks Laich to a $6.1-million, three-year pact.

Fedorov, 38, had 13 points (2-11) in the 18 regular-season games he played with the Caps after being acquired from Columbus. The Russian centre added five points in a first-round playoff loss to Philadelphia.

Laich, 25, had career highs in goals (21), assists (16) and points (37) last season and was one of four Capitals to play in all 82 games.

The native of Wawota, Sask., had 12 goals and 20 points in the final 22 regular-season games as the Capitals made a late-season run to win the Southeast Division title.

COMMENTS (7)

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James Finney Posted
(2009-04-30 06:34:25)

Federov's is for a bit more than I wanted ($3-3.5mil), but he is still a great defensive forward, worked great on the Red Line in the playoffs and is still overall very useful. The biggest impact he made was improving Semin's overall play. Semin used to annoy the crap out of me, never pass, take bad shots, basically just skate around until he lost the puck. Federov came in and was talking to him almost every time they were on the bench and he started passing, playing better defense, and overall making much better decisions. If he helps Semin improve even more, look for Semin to get 40+ goals next season (if he stays healthy).

bostongm Posted
(2009-04-30 06:34:23)

Federov is over-paid. Who does he think he is? Michael Ryder? Hhahahahahhahaha. I do agreee though that Semin will break-out this season though. 80 points he will garner. This guy is SKILLED as hell and he'll prove it this season. He's like a younger version of Kovalev,but more hungrier. Washington fans will be surprised at his production this year. Mark it down writers.

Frannie Duggart Posted
(2009-04-30 06:34:16)

Not since the Oilers made their improbable run (Losing to the Canes) have I seen such an inspiring late season push like the Caps made last season. Easy to root for Alex, 100 point scorer with a physical presence and an excitement level of a 10 year old. I think Federov is more of a value behind the scenes than many might imagine. Take a look a Zherdev's turn around in Columbus as a recent example. Good for Federov and the Caps.

Jimi Guy Posted
(2009-04-30 06:34:15)

I think Federov fits quite nicely in Washington. He should be a great asset for leadership qualities and his experience is also great for helping to develop the young talent on the Caps.

Janet Posted
(2009-04-30 06:34:12)

I think while the $ are a little higher than I expected the Federov deal is important to Washington. Having Federov work with a player like Semin will be huge in terms of unlocking that player's potential. Like the previous poster said Federov is "valuable on the ice and in the dressing room". Semin has always impressed me as one of the MOST highly skilled players in the NHL. If he can play like he did in the PLAY OFFS it will transform Washington's potential by having two unbelievably potent scorers (the two Alexs). I think the elder countryman's presence will help Semin a lot!

zinserkc Posted
(2009-04-30 06:34:12)

Agreed. If Federov can help Semin develop and reach his potential then thats well worth the $4 million.

public Posted
(2009-04-30 06:34:10)

Not sure if Sergei is worth $4 Million a year, but he is a valuable player on the ice and in the dressing room so a net thumbs-up for the Caps on this.