Washington Capitals Deal Brooks Laich to the Toronto Maple Leafs for Daniel Winnick

The Washington Capitals dealt long time forward Brooks Laich, prospect Connor Carrick and a second round pick in the 2016 National Hockey League Entry Draft to the Toronto Maple Leafs for Daniel Winnick and a fifth round draft pick on Sunday night.

The move helps the Capitals clear about 2.2 million dollars in salary cap space prior to Monday’s trade deadline giving them a little more room to fine tune their team for the 2015-2016 Stanley Cup Playoffs.

The 32 year-old Laich, was the longest tenured player on the Capitals. General Manager, Brian MacLellan thanked Laich for his time with the organization, while calling him a true professional and wished him well in his future endeavors. In 743 NHL games, he has netted 133 goals and 191 assists between the Capitals and the Ottawa Senators. 

While Winnick is a gritty, versatile player, MacLellan added that the move helps the Capitals add depth to the forwards and some balance to their lineup. In 60 games during the 2015-2016 season, Laich has put up seven goals and six assists. 

Carrick scored 10 goals and 15 assists in 46 games, for the Capitals American Hockey League affiliate the Hershey Bears. Carrick also made an appearance in three games with the Capitals during this season. The Leafs feel the 21 year-old Carrick will be a nice addition to their system. He currently leads all Bears defensemen in scoring.

The 30 year-old Winnick, signed a one-year deal with the Maple Leafs in 2014 before being moved to the Pittsburgh Penguins last February and then returning to Toronto as an Unrestricted Free Agent on July 1. In 56 games this season he has scored four goals and 10 assists. 

The fifth round pick that the Leafs sent Washington’s way, was acquired from the Anaheim Ducks in the deal for Korbinian Holzer. 

While no salary was retained by either side in the deal, Laich’s 4.5 million-dollar cap hit becomes the Maple Leafs’ highest on their active roster.