Mike Green remains in Capitals' plans despite additions of Orpik and Niskanen

The Washington Capitals made some kind of splash in free agency Tuesday, signing defensemen Matt Niskanen and Brooks Orpik - both previously of the Pittsburgh Penguins - to long-term contracts. 

The additions led some to surmise that perhaps Mike Green may be deemed expendable by the club.

Pump the brakes on that speculation, says general manager Brian MacLellan.

With that apparent vote of confidence in mind, Green's agent said his client is "excited about the additions because it makes the team better."

Green has one year remaining on his deal with the Capitals, carrying a cap hit of over $6-million. The 28-year-old registered nine goals and 29 assists in 70 games for Washington this past season, the fourth highest point total of his nine year career.

While Green appears to be in the team's plans heading into training camp, things may change as the 2015 trade deadline approaches, lest the Capitals lose him to unrestricted free agency next summer.