Capitals Acquire Dennis Wideman for Jake Hauswirth, Draft Pick

The Washington Capitals announced today that they have acquired defenseman Dennis Wideman in exchange for prospect center Jake Hauswirth and a third round pick in the 2011 Entry Draft. Wideman has one more year left on his current contract and will be an unrestricted free agent next summer, while Hauswirth has one more year remaining on his entry-level deal. In 61 games so far this season, Wideman has nine goals and 24 assists for 33 points, while Hauswirth has 10 goals and four assists for 14 points in 37 games with South Carolina of the ECHL. Not a bad move for the Capitals, as Wideman will bring lots of offensive depth to the team's blueline. He can also log lots of minutes and is good on the power play. With Mike Green currently sidelined indefinitely with a head injury, the need for another offensive blueliner in Washington was important. For the Panthers, they get a marginal prospect in Hauswirth who has some bottom-six forward skill, but is still a few seasons away from landing a regular NHL roster spot.