NHL

Rangers nemesis Tom Wilson inks huge $45 million Capitals extension

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Social Links for Belle Fraser
Published Aug. 4, 2023
Updated Aug. 4, 2023, 2:22 p.m. ET

Here comes more Tom Wilson. 

The Capitals forward signed a seven-year, $45.5 million contract extension on Friday, prolonging Wilson’s time in the Eastern Conference — much to the dismay of Rangers fans. 

The deal carries an average annual value of $6.5 million and runs through the 2030-31 season. 

“So excited to sign an extension to stay with this team, it’s really what I always wanted,” Wilson said in a video posted by the Capitals on Friday.

“The fan base, the organization, the city, it all means so much to me and I just wanted to say thank you for all the support over the years. You’ve made D.C. feel like home and I can’t wait to get started this season and keep it going.”

Washington Capitals right wing Tom Wilson stands on the ice.
Washington Capitals right wing Tom Wilson stands on the ice. AP
Tom Wilson #43 takes a roughing penalty during the second period against Artemi Panarin #10.
Tom Wilson #43 takes a roughing penalty during the second period against Artemi Panarin #10. Getty Images

While the right winger has never been popular in New York — especially not since May 2021 when he rag-dolled a defenseless and helmetless Artemi Panarin — Wilson has meant a whole lot to Washington’s core group.

Wilson, 29, has developed from a bottom-six player to a top-line staple alongside Alex Ovechkin and Evgeny Kuznetsov since he was drafted No. 16 overall by the Capitals in 2012. 

The Stanley Cup champion is unique in the fact that he has a real edge and is an agitator but –– to the great frustration of all his opponents –– boasts raw offensive talent as well. 

T.J. Oshie #77 of the Washington Capitals (C) celebrates with Alex Ovechkin #8 (L) and Tom Wilson #43 (R).
T.J. Oshie #77 of the Washington Capitals (C) celebrates with Alex Ovechkin #8 (L) and Tom Wilson #43 (R). Getty Images

In the 2022-23 season, Wilson posted 13 goals and nine assists while leading his team with 78 penalty minutes.

Wilson set an array of NHL career-highs in 2021-22 with 24 goals, 28 assists and 10 power-play points through 78 games played. 

The Toronto native was entering the final year of his contract this season and poised to become an unrestricted free agent next summer before Washington locked him up for the foreseeable future. 

Tom Wilson #42 of the Washington Capitals celebrates his goal with teammates.
Tom Wilson #42 of the Washington Capitals celebrates his goal with teammates. NHLI via Getty Images

“Tom possesses all the intangibles needed to win in this league and we are extremely pleased to sign him to a long-term contract, giving him the opportunity to finish his career in a Capitals’ uniform,” Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan said, according to the NHL. 

 “Throughout his career, Tom has improved every facet of his game through his drive and competitiveness. We feel his work ethic and leadership qualities will be a tremendous asset to our organization for years to come.”