Capitals Ink Saprykin

The Washington Capitals signed left wing Oleg Saprykin to a four-year deal recently. The Russian came to the club last season in a trade with Boston, but he did not suit up after failing to sign a contract.

Saprykin, 25, is a gritty player with good speed and skill. He's strong at both ends, especially in his own zone, and he loves to hit. In 71 games two seasons ago he scored nine goals and assisted on 19 others with 48 PIMs and 128 hits.

Oleg will play the third line with Artem Chubarov in the middle and a right wing to be named later. The club expects big things from him in his first season.