Capitals sign Brooks Orpik: GM MacLellan: 'His experience will greatly enhance our defense'

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The Washington Capitals made a splash on day one of free-agency as they signed veteran defenseman Brooks Orpik.

Senior vice president and general manager Brian MacLellan told the Capitals Monumental Network:

We are very excited to welcome Brooks to Washington. We feel Brooks’ leadership and experience will greatly enhance our defense for years to come. Brooks plays tough minutes against the opposition's best players.

The five-year, $27.5-million contract signed by Orpik will likely bring him to retirement at the age of 38. In 72 games played, Orpik scored 13 points and played an average of 21 minutes per game.