David Steckel

'07-08 Stats                      Age (on October 1): 26                  Contract: UFA after '09

'07-08 Season Report

After a four-year college career at Ohio State and a few more years toiling in the minors, Steckel got his chance under Glen Hanlon. His size, defensive skill, and faceoff prowess kept him in the lineup -- making Brian Sutherby expendable. In fact, one could even say that Steckel's play allowed the Capitals to bring Cristobal Huet in. (Check out Huet's profile to see why.)

The faceoff prowess I speak of ranked him 6th in the league among players with at least 900 draws, just ahead of teammates Boyd Gordon and Sergei Fedorov and best among all NHL rookies. Steckel also led all NHL rookies in shorthanded ice time per game at 3:46, a full 39 seconds ahead of 2nd place defenseman Tobias Enstrom.

Steckel had a very consistent year, but the Capitals could use him to double or triple his goal and point totals of 5 and 12 respectively to validate his spot in the lineup.

Intangibles

Steckel won over Boudreau in their time together in Hershey. The coach knows Steckel is capable of scoring goals -- he had 30 for the Bears in '06-07 -- and would love to see it at this level. An intimidating physical presence at 6'5", he will also be counted on for leadership among the checkers as he matures into his role.

Future Fit

If the Capitals re-sign Sergei Fedorov along with Michael Nylander's return, the Capitals will have 5 pure centers with Nicklas Backstrom, Boyd Gordon and Steckel, not to mention Brooks Laich's ability to play the pivot. For this reason alone, Fedorov might not be back. Steckel has certainly earned his spot in the lineup, but a bit more offense would cement it

If Fedorov is welcomed back, Steckel could see some time on the wing. I don't foresee Stecks being scratched out of the gate, but it would be very interesting to see how Bruce Boudreau would work in all 5 guys.