Capitals trade F Martin Erat to Coyotes for D Rostislav Klesla in four-player deal
It appears as though the Washington Capitals have finally found a new home for forward Martin Erat.
Sources say the Coyotes and Capitals are finalizing a trade on Martin Erat. Details to follow.
— Darren Dreger (@DarrenDreger) March 5, 2014
It's Erat and John Mitchell for Klesla, Chris Brown and a pick. #TSN #Tradecentre
— Bob McKenzie (@TSNBobMcKenzie) March 5, 2014
Erat, along with prospect Michael Latta, was acquired by the Capitals prior to the 2013 trade deadline in exchange for Filip Forsberg. Erat became unhappy with his usage under head coach Adam Oates early on this season, and requested a trade back in November.
In 52 games this season, Erat, 32, has scored one lone goal, while adding 23 assists and 46 shots with an average ice time of 14:44.
Forward John Mitchell, 27, has most recently been playing in the AHL with the Hershey Bears, scoring three goals and three assists in 20 games.
The Coyotes also receive a fourth-round draft choice in the 2015 NHL Entry Draft from the Capitals.
Klesla, 31, has recorded one goal and three assists while averaging 15:31 of ice time in 25 games for the Coyotes this season. He had been placed on waivers by the team back in November. Chris Brown was drafted in the second-round of the 2009 NHL Draft, and has yet to record point in six career games in Phoenix.
The trade has been confirmed by the Coyotes' official Twitter account.
Caps officially announce trade, say Brown and Klesla both will report to Hershey. Straight Erat dump, kids.
— Ted Starkey (@TedStarkey) March 5, 2014