Washington Capitals: 5 best trades in franchise history

4. The Green Trade

Speaking of polarizing players, let’s discuss former Capitals defenseman Mike Green. He’s an offensive defenseman who played before players of his caliber were truly appreciated. Green, however, holds the dubious distinction of being the last Capitals defenseman to be named a Norris Trophy finalist. He lost in consecutive years to Zdeno Chara and Duncan Keith. Perhaps in the modern era, Green would have one at least one (maybe even two).

His defense, though not outstanding, was solid. Though Green had a tendency to turn the pucks over, it shouldn’t shock anyone that he handled the puck a lot. The more you handle the puck, the more you turn the puck over. Simple math. In his heyday, Green might have been the most dynamic defenseman in Capitals history. He could do things with the puck that no one else could.

Back in 2003-04, the Capitals traded forward Robert Lang to the Detroit Red Wings. In exchange, they got a first-round pick (later used to select Green) and Tomas Fleischmann. The latter was simply icing on the cake. He never lived up to his true potential of being a consistent top-six forward, but he had a decent career. Ironically, Green would later sign with the Red Wings in free agency.

For many Caps fans, the Rock The Red Capitals reignited their passion and love for hockey. Green was a significant part of it. Though he had his warts, it’s hard to tell the history of the Capitals without him.