PAYDAY! Capitals Extend Tom Wilson, 7 Years & Big Money

Tom Wilson will be with the Washington Capitals for a long time.

Friday, senior vice president and GM Brian McClellan announced a seven-year extension for Wilson beginning in 2024-25, essentially making Wilson a Capitals force through 2031. The deal carries a $6.5 million AAV.

Wilson is 29 and will be 38 when the deal ends.

“Tom possesses all the intangibles needed to win in this league, and we are extremely pleased to sign him to a long-term contract, giving him the opportunity to finish his career in a Capitals’ uniform,” said MacLellan. “Throughout his career, Tom has improved every facet of his game through his drive and competitiveness. We feel his work ethic and leadership qualities will be a tremendous asset to our organization for years to come.”

Wilson was entering the final year of a six-year deal with a $5.16 million AAV. Last season, Wilson played only 33 games after serious knee surgery kept him out for most of the season. He still scored 22 points, including 13 goals, as the Capitals failed to keep pace in the Metro Division and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2013-14.

In 2021-22, Wilson set career highs in goals (24), assists (28), points (52), power-play points (10), and ice time per game (18:35) in 78 games played. Wilson has potted 20 or more goals three times in his career and has 80 even-strength goals since 2017-18, which is second on the team to Alex Ovechkin (176).

Wilson also had 15 points in 21 games during the Capitals’ 2018 Stanley Cup run.

Of course, Wilson isn’t known for his offensive contributions but for his all-around game, and is one of the most physical players in the league. Wilson’s least penalized season (per game) was 2020-21, with only 93 PIMs.

According to HockeyFights.com, Wilson has also engaged in 80 regular-season fights.

The Capitals’ 2012 first-round pick (16th overall) ranks seventh in the NHL in hits (2,039) and leads Capitals forwards in blocked shots (400) since making his NHL debut in 2013.

Via Twitter, Wilson released a statement, “Feeling extremely honored today as I get to sign an extension with the city that I’ve called home for the last 10 years. Being a Cap means so much to me, and I can’t wait to continue to compete and leave it all out there with this team. Thanks to the Caps family for the support!”