If the Washington Capitals sign a veteran defender, while not re-signing Brooks Orpik, then unrestricted free agent Dan Hamhuis is a solid option.
Hamhuis turns 36 in November and ranks 24th on the Pro Hockey Rumors Top 50 Unrestricted Free Agent list. A 14-year veteran, he spent the last two seasons with the Dallas Stars and still lays close to 20 minutes a night.
The Caps expect to use Christian Djoos and Madison Bowey as the third-pair on defense this season. Both are young and eager but lack major experience.