On July 4th Grabovski was bought out by his former team, the Toronto Maple Leafs. Days after, he displayed his displeasure with Coach Randy Carlyle on a radio show.

Yesterday, the Washington Capitals took a chance with him to a one-year three million dollar deal. For Grabovski it is a good deal as he can show his skill after having a down year and will be able to earn a nice contract for himself. He will also be able to be a second-line player, something he has stated this offseason that he wanted to play.

The Caps got a good deal from this signing, too. They got the second-line player they wanted and someone who has shown leadership in the past. As well as someone who has had three seasons of 20 goals or more. He will most likely be used on the Power Play.

Who does this deal affect?

Marcus Johansson is the key player, he is still a restricted free agent and with the signing it leaves about 3 million in cap space to sign him. Can he be signed for three million? Yes, he can, but it leaves the Caps with almost no flexibility. However, he might be traded for draft picks as well.

Another thing the Caps have to worry about is Grabovski’s maturity. In the past, he has had several controversies. With the veteran leadership on the caps, as well as Caps head coach, Adam Oates that problem should be a non-factor.

Who will Grabovski be lined up with?

The depth chart lists that he will be paired with Troy Brouwer on the left wing and Martin Erat on right wing. All of that can change in training camp, however.

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