Former Washington Capitals winger Matt Bradley has officially departed the team, signing a two-year contract with the Capitals' division rival, the Florida Panthers. The Panthers announced the signing on their Twitter account. Terms of his contract have not been disclosed.
The gritty Bradley became a fan favorite in his six years in Washington for his play on the checking line. On a team that many felt lacked grit, Bradley was beloved. But with the Capitals making several moves on Friday to address that shortcoming, Bradley became expendable. He had four goals and seven assists in 61 games last season.
Bradley is one of many fresh faces for the Panthers. He will be joined by fellow former Capital Tomas Fleischmann, who signed a four-year, $18 million deal on Friday. Fleischmann had been traded to the Avalanche for defensemen Scott Hannan last year. Hannan is unlikely to return to D.C.
For more on the signing, visit Japers Rink.