Washington Capitals and Philadelphia Flyers decided to swap their defensemen in a trade that took place on Friday. Capitals sent Marr Niskanen to Flyers, while getting Radko Gudas in exchange.
Both teams confirmed the deals on their respective social media.
Niskanen joined Capitals in 2014 and was a consistent performer, helping the team to lift Stanley Cup trophy last season. However, his production dipped in 2018/19, and he finished the season with only 17 points.
“We would like to thank Matt for all of his contributions to our organization for the past five seasons,” – said general manager Brian MacLellan in a statement. “Matt is a consummate professional and was a big part of our success. We wish him and his family all the best moving forward.”
Gudas, on the other hand, was entering his fifth year with the Flyers. He finished the last season with four goals and 16 assists for a total of 20 points.
“We are pleased to welcome Radko to our organization. Radko is a good defensive defenseman that plays a competitive, physical game,” – added MacLellan.
Capitals have to make several free-agent decisions this summer, so their decision to trade Niskanen had a financial background. He had two years left on his deal which paid him $5.75 million annually, while Gudas comes with a one-year contract and $2.345 million salary.
