Capitals News: Washington Acquires Tim Gleason From Hurricanes For Jack Hillen

The Washington Capitals struck a deal to improve their blue line on Saturday, acquiring defenseman Tim Gleason from the Carolina Hurricanes for defenseman Jack Hillen and a fourth-round pick in the 2015 NHL Draft.

"I'm pretty excited, obviously," Gleason said, via NHL.com. "It's a playoff team … so this is real exciting to be in the race. I'm really looking forward to moving along here."

Gleason recently skated against the Capitals when he suited up for the Hurricanes in Carolina on Friday. Now, he's part of a Caps team jockeying for position in the Eastern Conference playoff mix.

"It's funny how things work, you play these guys last night," Gleason said. "You have some battles on the ice, and words said, and this and that, and low and behold you're playing with those guys the next day.

"I'll be shaking hands with those guys."

Gleason, 32, only has one goal and seven assists in 55 games this season. However, his reputation as a tough-minded veteran supersedes his scoring output.

"We are pleased to welcome Tim to our organization," Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan said. "Tim is a veteran, physical defenseman and we feel his experience, toughness and skill set further strengthens our blue line."

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