Capitals Pick Up Two on Deadline Day

The Washington Capitals made two moves on the trading deadline day. They traded prospect Jake Hauswirth and a 3rd round draft pick in the 2011 draft to the Florida Panthers in return for defenseman Dennis Wideman. Wideman is a veteran with 439 games worth of NHL experience and has this season and next remaining on his contract. He is an offensive minded defenseman and will look to contribute to the Capital struggling power play.

The other move of the day brought in Jason Arnott from the New Jersey Devils to solidify the 2nd line center role. To get Arnott the Capitals exchanged 4th line center and the NHL's best face-off man, David Steckel and a 2nd round pick in the 2011 draft. While seeing Steckel leave is tough, this is the price you pay when you need to fill specific area and have talent that is coveted by the rest of the league. We wish David well and hope that Arnott can spark the scoring touch of Alexander Semin and Brooks Laich.

Overall, I think the Capitals helped themselves in key areas. I am looking forward to seeing how these players can bolster the team in the final push to the playoffs. That journey begins tonight when the New York Islander come to Verizon Center.