Capitals re-sign Zubrus to two-year contract

WASHINGTON --- The Washington Capitals have re-signed restricted free agent Dainius Zubrus to a two-year contract, vice president and general manager George McPhee announced on Tuesday.

Financial terms were not disclosed.

Zubrus, 24, had a career-high 17 goals and 26 assists for the Capitals last season.

Predominantly a left wing since breaking into the NHL in 1996-97, Zubrus was moved to center on a line with Jaromir Jagr after the Capitals traded Adam Oates to Philadelphia at last season's trading deadline.

"He finished strong last year, and if he plays at that level start to finish this season, he'll be an extremely effective player," McPhee said.

However, the Caps signed free agent Robert Lang in the offseason and he will center the top line with Jagr in 2002-03.

The Capitals acquired Zubrus from the Montreal Canadiens in March 2001. In 422 career NHL games, Zubrus has 66 goals and 155 assists, including 18 goals and 27 assists in 83 games for Washington.

The 6-4, 231-pound native of Lithuania placed second on the team with a plus-5 rating last season.

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