The Washington made a key signing to their blue-line on Tuesday when they signed the physical d-man Brooks Orpik. Full details to come but its expected to be more than the $3.75 million he earned with the Pittsburgh Penguins.
Orpik, 33, was drafted in the 1st round, 18th overall, in the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by the Penguins has spent his entire career in the Penguins organization, developing in Wilkes-Barre for two full seasons before finally given an opportunity. In his full debut season, the 2003-04 season, Orpik put up just 10 points (1 goal, 9 assists) in 79 games, but it was the 127 minutes in penalties he racked up that got the crowd intrigued.
As interest grew in the brute force of Orpik’s defensive style, he became a main-stay on the Penguins roster and despite going through tough seasons, always delivered something for the fans to talk about. As part of the 2009 team, Orpik has a Stanley Cup ring to commemorate their victory but Orpik also won the Penguins club award for Defensive Player of the Year. The award is a team award, selected by the team. Orpik also has an Olympic Silver Medal for his role on the US Olympic squad in the 2010 Winter Games.
Like most aging veterans, his better days are behind him and along with that, his speed has decreased and decision making has become somewhat of a concern. The Capitals will need to find a capable puck-moving defenseman to play alongside Orpik, in order to cover up his flaws. Otherwise, the team knows what they are getting in a player of this caliber. Reliable defensively, can drop the gloves if needed and he sure knows how to lay a hit too.
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