Forward Matt Hendricks's three-year tenure with the Washington Capitals came to an end Friday as he signed a four-year contract with the Nashville Predators worth $7.4 million.
Hendricks, who attended training camp in 2010 on a tryout basis and earned himself a one-year contract, became a fan favorite for his hard-nosed play, paralyzing shootout goals and overall versatility. Teammates praised him for his invaluable locker room presence and willingness to pay the physical price.
At 32 years old, Hendricks was seeking his first -- and probably last -- major payday, but with the Capitals re-signing fourth-line forward Aaron Volpatti to a two-year extension at the end of the last season and the emergence of prospect Tom Wilson, the Capitals seemingly replaced Hendricks from within and ultimately let him go.
Extremely happy to be a @PredsNHL! Thanks to DC for the great memories. pic.twitter.com/mtJC8ld6Zr — Matt Hendricks (@MattHendy26) July 5, 2013
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