Post: Knuble will not return to Caps

Katie Carrerra from the Washington Post has confirmed that fan favorite Washington Caps forward Mike Knuble will not return to the Caps in 2012-13 season.

Not surprising, but sad.  Of all current Caps free agents, I would have liked to see Knuble return because of the style of gritty hockey play he brings to the ice each night.  Despite being 40 years old, Knuble brings grit, toughness, and willingness to have net presence, something the capitals lack at times.  It is hardly surprising though.  We fully expect the Washington Capitals to undergo a roster transformation as they look for pieces that can get them over their first and second round playoff humps.

Knuble is the second Cap from last season to be told of his departure.  Earlier in the week, Tomas Vokoun was traded tot he Pittsburgh Penguins for a seventh round draft pick.  Vokoun had no intention of returning to Washington, nor did Washington have any intention of attempting to keep Vokoun.  The Caps are set with their young net minders, Michal Neuvirth and Braden Holtby.