The Washington Capitals announced the acquisition of center Tyler Graovac from the Wild. In exchange, Minnesota acquires Washington’s fifth round pick in 2018.
The 24 year old played in 52 games with the Wild last season, scoring seven goals and added two assists while averaging 9:50 of ice time per game. He fared better offensively with Iowa at the AHL level, collecting 10 goals and five assists in 26 games. The 191st overall pick in 2011 cleared waivers earlier in the season so the team is doing well to get an asset, albeit a late pick, for someone they could have lost for free just a few months ago.
From Washington’s perspective, this deal is primarily due to expansion. His acquisition provides them with a second signed forward to expose to meet the 40/70 requirement (Graovac hasn’t played in 70 career NHL games but the 52 this season qualify him). Graovac has one year left on his contract with a cap hit of $625K, $25K below the league minimum for next season. Assuming he’s not selected by the Golden Knights, he’ll push for a spot at the end of the roster in training camp.