When the Washington Capitals signed Mike Richards in early January, adding an experienced center to an already stacked forward corps, Michael Latta knew that might not bode well for him. He was excited to have Richards on the team, but as he considered the team’s depth at center, he realized there may not be a place for him at that position.
Jay Beagle had just injured his hand, needing surgery, but he had been the team’s best player on faceoffs. Marcus Johansson had just converted to center, but the third line was thriving with him there. Then add Richards, a two-time Stanley Cup winner, to the mix.