Hard-nosed defenceman Matt Roy has signed with the Washington Capitals. Roy was on many teams’ wish lists as a right-shot defenceman, who’s difficult to play against. His signing takes him off the market and he can now focus his sights on the 2024-25 campaign knowing where he stands. The deal is for six years with a $5.75 million AAV.
MATT’S A CAP‼️
The Washington Capitals have signed defenseman Matt Roy to a six-year, $34.5 million contract. Roy’s contract will carry an average annual value of $5.75 million. #ALLCAPS
— Washington Capitals (@Capitals) July 1, 2024
Top-Four Defenceman Matt Roy Signs With the Washington Capitals
As Matt Roy signs with the Capitals, let’s go over why he did or didn’t deserve such a contract. Roy is a 29-year-old, with six years of NHL experience. If you are thinking that’s not a lot of experience for someone of his age, there is a reason for it. He has simply put in his time developing. After three years at university with Michigan Tech, he then moved on to the AHL. Furthermore, he then played two full seasons in the AHL with the Ontario Reign before earning a spot in the show.
Since his callup with the Los Angeles Kings in 2018-19, he hasn’t looked back. In the last couple of seasons, he has really come into his own. He has steadily increased his role and is now considered a top-four d-man, on a playoff contender. He’s tough to play against in his own zone, and dynamic enough to chip in offensively. Check out his stats from 2023-24, in 81 games he had five goals and 20 assists for 25 points. Also, his rugged nature is on display statistically with 197 blocked shots and 152 hits. Moreover, he had a 60.0 defensive zone start percentage, and was a regular penalty killer, all the while playing 20:54 a night.
It is easy for the Capitals to see his value to solidify their defence. Great move by them to recognize a quality asset at a crucial position.
Main Photo Credit: Jayne Kamin-Oncea-USA TODAY Sports
