Capitals' Holtby prefers long-term security, but willing to bet on himself again

The NHL's most fascinating figure is also the summer's most compelling contract case.

Having made an NHL-most 86 starts for the Washington Capitals in the final season of a modest two-year bridge contract signed in 2013, Braden Holtby is in line to receive a mega deal this summer as a restricted free agent.

Though admittedly, Holtby (whose quirks have quirks) would prefer the insurance of a long-term agreement, he toyed with the idea of using a one-year deal – and the prospects of unrestricted free agency – as motivation.

This concept was quite evident in his performance this season. Holtby emerged as a top-flight goaltender in the face of more than 2,000 shots, winning 41 games and putting on a brilliant performance through the first two rounds of the postseason.