Caps Signing News - Caps Sign Top Prospect Karl Alzner to 3 Year Entry Level Contract

Per the Caps Website , today the Caps signed top prospect Karl Alzner to a 3 year NHL Entry Level deal. Rabid Caps fans can get their first "eyes on" Alzner this summer when he attends the Caps' summer development camp, to be held July 7-12 at Kettler Capitals Iceplex in Arlington, Va. However he has been here before, he attended summer development camp with the Caps last year and played in a preseason game against the Carolina Hurricanes.

Alzner was Washington’s first choice (fifth overall) in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft. The 19-year-old from British Columbia was named the 2007-08 recipient of the Four Broncos Memorial Trophy, awarded annually to the WHL’s player of the year. Alzner was also named the WHL’s best defenseman for 2007-08. He is also the WHL’s nominee for CHL player of the year. Although the Capitals' team defense took a quantum leap forward in the second half, the Caps could still use a bona fide shutdown defender. That was Alzner’s role with the WHL’s Calgary Hitmen in 2007-08, and it was his role with Team Canada at the 2008 World Junior Championship. He excelled at that task with both teams.

"We're very excited for Karl as today marks the start of his pro career," said Hitmen GM and Head Coach Kelly Kisio. "Not only has Karl been an excellent defenseman for the Calgary Hitmen but his leadership off the ice will leave a lasting impact in our dressing room." Alzner, the 2008 Calgary Hitmen Player of the Year, WHL Player of the Year and WHL Defenceman of the Year, not only captained the Hitmen this past season but also led Team Canada to a Gold Medal at the 2008 World Junior Hockey Championship.

Not the D-Man, I was hoping to see get quickly signed by the Caps after the conclusion of the World Championships but a good solid signing in any case. Given the doubts surrounding Brian Pothier's potential to return to the Caps, Alzner probably has a legitimate chance at making the Caps roster this year and will certainly make the Bears if he looks like he needs some more seasoning. LETS GO CAPS!!!!