CAPS sign Semin to an extension

[Guest CAPS FAN]

Alex Semin signed a one-year, $6.7 million contract extension with the Washington Capitals Thursday, the second straight year he and the team have settled on a 12-month deal for one of the game's most streaky, dynamic scorers.

 

"Alex was basically comfortable with another one-year deal, and that was fine with us," general manager George McPhee said. "We could do one-year deals for the next 10 years if he wishes. It gives us flexibility. It gives the player flexibility."

 

The 26-year-old Russian right wing is making $6 million this season. His salary next season will match the per-year amount in teammate Nicklas Backstrom's 10-year, $67 million contract -- at one-tenth the length.

 

Semin, who rarely speaks to reporters, scored a career-high 40 goals last season, but his production has waned recently in a team-wide scoring slump as the Capitals adjust to a more defensive style of play. He has 18 goals and 17 assists but hasn't scored since Nov. 28, and he hasn't played since Jan. 8 because of a groin injury.