Poti, Capitals Agree To Two-Year Extension

The Washington Capitals took a proactive approach with one of their top blue line assets Tuesday by signing Tom Poti a two-year, $5.75 million extension that will kick in during the 2011-12 season. Poti will see $3 million of that money in that campaign while earning the remaining $2.75 million in 2012-13. He will count as a $2.875 million cap hit against the Capitals' payroll during those years. He is set to earn $3.5 million this upcoming season in the final year of a four-year, $14 million signed back in 2007 with Washington.

"I think we have a chance to win here," Poti told Katie Carrera of The Washington Post. "I've played in the league 12, 13 years and still haven't won. I think this is the best chance for me to get a Cup. Not just one Cup but more than one Cup, hopefully. I was willing to give up some money, leave some money on the table, to have a chance at that."


While Mike Green is the alpha defenseman for the Capitals, Poti ranks pretty much at number two on the positional depth chart. The 33-year old, 11-year veteran is a solid all-round presence. His offensive prowess has been on the decline, but he's still capable of putting up points, especially on the power play. He can also log a ton of minutes and use his size efficiently to play a steady defensive presence for his club.

He's had some injury concerns over the years that make him a bit of an risk. But Poti can still be counted on for around 70 games a season at this point.

Last year, he posted four goals (half on the man advantage) with 20 assists and a plus-26 rating in 70 games played. He added four assists in six postseason games before Washington was ousted prematurely in the Conference Quarterfinals by the Montreal Canadiens.