Capitals extend Jakob Chychrun's contract for eight years

The Washington Capitals have re-signed defenseman Jakob Chychrun to an eight-year deal worth $72 million. This announcement was made by general manager Chris Patrick on Tuesday, just before the Capitals' game against the Winnipeg Jets. Chychrun's new contract will count $9 million against the salary cap when it starts next season and will last until 2033. Patrick praised Chychrun, calling him a "proven, dynamic defenseman" who is excelling in his career. He highlighted Chychrun's work ethic and skills as major benefits for the team's future. This season, Chychrun has scored 18 goals, which is more than all other Capitals defensemen combined and ranks third in the league. Securing Chychrun’s long-term contract was important for Patrick, as he had already signed goaltenders Logan Thompson and Charlie Lindgren to extensions. Chychrun, who is about to turn 27, was traded to the Capitals from Ottawa last season. Before that, he played for the Arizona Coyotes.