The Washington Capitals will not be bringing back winger Mike Knuble for the 2012-2013 season. Knuble revealed the news in the phone interview with the Washington Post, telling the paper that Capitals general manager George McPhee delivered the news to him about the team's decision.
Knuble spent three seasons with the Capitals. He now becomes an unrestricted free agent on July 1, when the NHL period for free agency begins. He turns 40 on July 4, which could limit his prospects in free agency.
The last season was a let down for Knuble. After being one of the team's top forwards, his ice time was slashed and the Capitals moved him to their fourth line. With just six goals, this year was the first time since 2001-2002 that he did not score at least 20 in a season.
Knuble told the Post that he can still play and would like to continue his hockey career.
"I feel prepared for anything," Knuble added. "I could be in hockey, outside of hockey - but my first priority would be to keep playing. You can run all sorts of scenarios in your head but you never know what might come down the line."
For his part, Knuble tweeted out his own thanks to Capitals fans Wednesday morning.
To Caps fans everywhere:thanks for an awesome 3 yrs in DC. We loved living and playing here. Great teammates, great friends. We'll miss it
— Mike Knuble (@MikeKnuble22) June 6, 2012
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