Mike Green to Detroit Red Wings

Jay LaPrete/AP Photo

Mike Green of the Washington Capitals is close to being traded for the 2014 NHL offseason. GM Brian MacLellan only has $1 million left in cap space after signing Penguins free agents Matt Niskanen and Brooks Orpik. With Karl Alzner and John Carlson also in the fold, the Capitals have depth on defense and no longer need the services of Green.

The 28 year old tallied 31 goals and 42 assists in the 2008-2009 season, and followed up his next season with a 76 point campaign. The last few seasons, Green has been injured often and struggling to find consistency. The right shooting defenseman is signed for one more season to a $6 million cap hit contract.

The Detroit Red Wings have $9.5 million available in cap space and only 6 defensemen signed - all left-handed. Look for the Red Wings to make a trade - left winger Tomas Tatar for Mike Green.