Former Washington Capitals captain Jeff Halpern has been signed to a one-year deal, reportedly worth $825,000. The center, a native of Potomac, Md., originally signed with the team as an undrafted free agent on March 29, 1999.Overall, Halpern played 438 games for the Caps and captained the team during the 2005-06 season. The 5'11", 198-pound center recorded 214 points (87 goals, 127 assists) in his career with Washington, including a career-high 46 points (19 goals, 27 assists) during the 2003-04 season. In 17 playoff games with the Caps, Halpern tallied four goals and five assists.Halpern probably will play on the third or fourth line, especially with Boyd Gordon signing with Phoenix today. Halpern also is a tough, gritty player that will help the Caps' playing style. This is a smart, low-risk signing that also brings along some sentimental value. The only thing that will change about Halpern is his sweater number, as No. 11 is now retired in honor of Mike Gartner.
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