WASHINGTON, Dec. 13 -- The Washington Capitals Thursday signed left wing Steve Konowalchuk to a new four-year, $6.15 million contract.
Konowalchuk will receive $1.5 million this season, $1.525 million in 2001-02, $1.55 million in 2002-03 and $1.575 million in 2003-04.
He would have become a restricted free agent at the end of the season.
"We are pleased to have Steve on a long-term contract," general manager George McPhee said. "He has been a model player and person in this organization for many years. He is a very effective player for us in a number of areas, has continued to improve and has assumed leadership responsibilties."
Konowalchuk, 28, has spent his entire nine-year career with the Capitals, amassing 113 goals and 154 assists in 526 games. This season, he is second on the team in goals (8), tied for fourth in points (17) and has a team-leading 48 penalty minutes.
The Capitals lead the Southeast Division with an 11-11-6-1 record and 29 points.
Washington also recalled defenseman Rob Zettler from Portland of the American Hockey League and assigned center Glen Metropolit to Portland.
