Matt Hendricks will get offers from other teams if the Washington Capitals don't sign him to an extension before free agency opens on July 5.
He can play left wing and center, take faceoffs, block shots, hit and work on the penalty kill. "I think I've established myself more in this league," Hendricks said. "Proved I can play throughout the lineup - special teams, penalty kill, things like that. I'm pretty good at faceoffs. I think I'm just more of an established player at this level." Washington GM George McPhee praised Hendricks for his work, but it's unclear if the team wants to commit to the longer term deal that he is reportedly seeking. Hendricks hopes to be back with the Capitals though and several of his teammates want that to happen as well.

Matt Hendricks' teammates are hoping the Capitals re-sign him.
Hendricks is scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent after completing his two-year/$1.65 million contract. "There's always changeover from year to year, but he's one of those guys you're not going to replace," Jason Chimera said. "It's not an easy job to go out there and fight guys twice his size. He sticks up for guys on the team and brings energy when no one else has it." Hendricks had eight points, 73 penalty minutes, and 93 hits in 48 games this season.

Matt Hendricks played through a scratched cornea in his left eye Tuesday night.
He lost his vision for a few minutes but returned to the game after receiving some treatment. In Wednesday's practice everything appeared to be fine. "I still feel it; it feels a little sore and a little burning sensation in there. But for the most part I'm good. It was probably more scary than anything," said Hendricks after Wednesday's session. He logged just 6:37 of ice time that night, but it isn't expected to keep him out of the lineup.

Matt Hendricks will play on Washington's first line alongside Alexander Ovechkin and Nicklas Backstrom Saturday afternoon against Winnipeg.
Hendricks has been slowly moving up the depth chart as he skated with Mike Ribeiro and Troy Brouwer on the team's second unit earlier this week. Aside from the fact that Hendricks is a good source for PIMs, playing with Ovie and Backstrom will lead to plenty of scoring opportunities. At the very least, pick him up for Saturday's game. Then you can re-evaluate his fantasy worth.

Matt Hendricks joined Mike Ribeiro and Troy Brouwer on Washington's second line for Thursday's morning skate.
He scored a goal and picked up 10 minutes in penalties from a pair of fighting majors in Tuesday's loss to Winnipeg. As a short-term pickup, Hendricks may not be a bad addition to leagues that reward PIMs and hits. Playing with Ribeiro should give some opportunities to contribute offensively as well.