Capitals Secure Chychrun with $72 Million Extension Ahead of Playoffs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The Washington Capitals announced Tuesday that they have re-signed defenseman Jakob Chychrun to an eight-year contract extension worth $72 million. This deal, which has a cap hit of $9 million, secures the 26-year-old blueliner through the 2033 season.

Chychrun, who turns 27 on March 31, was poised to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1. Since joining the Capitals from the Ottawa Senators in a trade last July, he has accumulated 18 goals and a career-high 43 points in 65 games. His performance includes a +24 rating and significant contributions in various metrics, such as a .5215 five-on-five Corsi-for percentage.

General Manager Chris Patrick praised Chychrun, stating, “Jakob is a proven, dynamic defenseman in the prime of his career who has established himself as one of the premier blueliners in the NHL. His work ethic, skill set, and ability to excel in all situations at both ends of the ice make him a valuable asset to our team.”

In the 2020-21 season, Chychrun ranked third in the NHL for power-play goals among defensemen with 22 goals. He is currently third in total goals for defensemen across the league with 66 goals since that season, trailing only Cale Makar and Roman Josi.

Among Capitals defensemen this season, Chychrun leads in goals, game-winning goals, and power-play points. His 18 goals are the highest by a defenseman in their first season with the Capitals, while his 43 points place him second in franchise history for defensemen in a debut season.

Chychrun’s consistency has shown in the Capitals’ performance; the team has a record of 17-0-1 when he scores. Additionally, he has matched or exceeded the 40-point mark for the third time in his career. Chychrun’s presence on the ice has made a positive impact on the team’s overall performance, contributing to their top standings in the Metropolitan Division and the Eastern Conference.

The Capitals are currently leading their division with a record of 47-15-8, holding a 12-point lead over the Carolina Hurricanes as they head into the final stretch of the regular season. The team is set to embark on a two-game road trip, starting with a matchup against the Winnipeg Jets on Tuesday night.

The Capitals have recently made other significant roster moves, including re-signing goaltenders Logan Thompson and Charlie Lindgren to contract extensions. The team has $75,375,000 allocated to the salary cap for the upcoming season, with several key players hitting free agency soon. As they prepare for the playoffs, securing Chychrun demonstrates the Capitals’ commitment to building a strong roster for continued success.