The Washington Capitals signed defenseman Jakob Chychrun to an 8-year, $72 million contract extension Tuesday.

The deal’s average annual value of $9 million is tied for 10th among NHL blueliners, according to Spotrac.

Chychrun, who turns 27 next week, has a career-high 43 points (18 goals, 25 assists) through 65 games this season.

“Jakob is a proven, dynamic defenseman in the prime of his career who has established himself as one of the premier blueliners in the NHL,” general manager Chris Patrick said. “His work ethic, skill set, and ability to excel in all situations at both ends of the ice make him a valuable asset to our team. He is a perfect fit with our culture and vision for the future, and we couldn’t be more thrilled that he will continue to be part of our organization for the next eight years.”

Among NHL defensemen since the start of the 2020-21 season, Chychrun ranks third in power-play goals (22) and is tied for third in goals (66).

The Capitals, who acquired Chychrun from the Ottawa Senators in a July 2024 trade, are 17-0-1 this season when he scores a goal. Washington entered play on Tuesday with an NHL-leading 102 points (47-15-8).

Chychrun has 259 points (94 goals, 165 assists) in 532 career games with Arizona (2016-23), Ottawa (2023-24) and Washington. The Coyotes drafted the Florida native with the No. 16 overall pick in 2016.

–Field Level Media