Post by Washington Capitals on Aug 29, 2022 11:45:07 GMT -6
Nick Jesen just signed a career best contract for himself this offseason in the PFHL. The Washington Capitals signed Defenseman Nick Jensen to a 4 year contract worth $40.25 ($8.75M per year with a $5.25M Signing Bonus) million dollars. Some may say that the Caps overpaid for solid yet average defenseman in the league but, GM Jay Williams thinks otherwise.
"Did we pay a lot for Nick? Sure we did but, if we didn't think he was worth it, we wouldn't have done it!" stated GM Williams when asked if he thinks that he overpaid in the usual Free Agency ritual where GMs throw a lot of money around. Other suitors for Jensen were rumored to be the New York Islanders and the Detroit Red Wings.
Nick Jensen held a short press conference last night regarding the signing and here are some pieces of that Q and A.
Washington Post: Nick, are you surprised at the money value of your new contract that you decided to sign?
Nick Jensen: Well, thats free agency for you *chuckles*. I really am flattered that the Capitals decided to offer me the amount they did and I have every intention of living up to this contract value and giving this team all I got for the next 4 years.
ESPN: Has ownership mentioned to you what role you will be taking on the team?
NJ: Actually, they did mention that they look forward to adding my veteran qualities to the team as they have 4, maybe 5 young up and coming defensemen that should make the team this year or next and they want me to help them with their game in the big leagues. That is one thing that actually helped my decision to sign with the Caps, to be apart of these young guys careers and to help them succeed.
SPORTSNET: You don't mind signing with a team that is obviously in a rebuild situation? Most veteran free agents like yourself usually look into signing with a contender.
NJ: Actually, eventhough this team seems to be rebuilding, it's more of a quick rebuild then a long one. I think the Capitals will be surprising a lot of people with how fast they turn into a Cup Contender. With young defensemen like Bouchard, Sandin, Mitchell and Foote poised to form a solid top four defensive squad and young forwards Svechnikov, Geekie and Jarvis, this team will be one to watch.
TSN: Any plans for your big Signing Bonus?
NJ: Going to go house shopping this week and settle in for what I hope is great four years in Washington!
