The Washington Capitals were able to open contract negotiations with center Mikhail Grabovski beginning Jan. 1, and according to his agent, Gary Greenstin, the two sides have initiated discussions about possibly re-signing the 29-year-old.
"He's comfortable here," Greenstin said Saturday at the Capitals' practice facility in Arlington. "Good coaching staff, he fits here very well, but Grabo is very talented center. He's able to play in a lot of organization the same role. He's a first-two liner, he reads the game very well, but we'll see what's happening. Most likely he'll stay here."
Grabovski signed a one-year, $3 million contract with Washington in late August after having the final four years of a five-year contract bought out by the Toronto Maple Leafs in early July. Grabovski has been one of the Capitals' most consistent players so far this season, quickly acclimating himself to several different linemates and contributing throughout the lineup. He has 12 goals and 32 points in 42 games, and he has been on the ice for 57.7% of Washington's even-strength goals this season, most among forwards.
"Why not?" Greenstin said when asked if he could envision Grabovski remaining with the Capitals. "Depends on the management. Coach [Adam Oates] likes him, we just begin talking about future contract. It's not easy process. It will take some time, I believe.
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