The Caps traded Matheiu Perreault to free up cap space yesterday, receiving a 4th rounder in 2014 and big minor leaguer John Mitchell in return. The writing seemed to be on the wall for the diminutive and talented pivot when Coach Oates started playing Eric Fehr and Martin Erat at center. Brooks Laich and Marcus Johansson both can fill the 3rd line center, as well.
The purpose of the trade - in which it can be argued the Caps did not get full value for Perreault - is to enure that Tom Wilson, Michael Latta and Connor Carrick can make the team. Carrick makes headlines because he never was considered as a favorite to make the big club. Wilson is noticeable because he was, and delivered with his preseason play. Latta - he's kind of forgotten in the mix. Jay Beagle and he seem to be in competition for the 4th line center. I'd prefer the edgier, nastier player be given the spot, as my well-known unhappiness with Washington's lack of nasty players in favor of 'honest' players hasn't been assuaged this off-season.
Perreault always struck me as a tweener - great hockey sense in the offensive zone, but never seeming to connect with any other coach than Boudreau, whom he is re-united with.
All in all, it's a necessary trade for the Caps, and a chance at a new beginning for the Drummondville native. It's easy to get caught up in the 'who won the trade' discussion, but this seems to help both clubs just fine.
Empty Thoughts
- Really impressed with Tom Wilson.
- Where is Erat going to play if Laich is healthy and plays Tuesday nigh? Center the 3rd line? 3rd line left wing?
- How many games will Connor Carrick sit? It appears that he's in the press box tomorrow night, which isn't surprising. How many games of being in the press box will make sense for his development? Regular playing time seems a premium for he and Tom Wilson - how will the Caps' coaching staff juggle that?
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