Capitals Sign Erskine to Two-Year Contract Extension

The Washington Capitals announced on Thursday that they have signed defenseman John Erskine to a two-year contract extension. Terms of the deal were not disclosed. Erskine would have been an unrestricted free agent at the end of the 2008-09 season. So far this season, Erskine has one assist and 11 penalty minutes in five games. This is a good move by the Capitals, as Erksine is a very tough and rugged player. He will bring lots of physicality to the Capitals' blueline over the next few seasons and will also likely protect the team's star players.