Tuesday morning, forward Daniel Winnik finally received an opportunity for next season, inking a PTO with the Minnesota Wild. Despite scoring a career high 12 goals last season, Winnik was not offered a guaranteed contract. It’s another example of an NHL trend where teams value young talent over veterans in a checking-line role.
Tuesday night, Winnik, who has previously called his time in Washington the most enjoyable of his career, thanked Caps fans for their support.
Want to thank Caps fans for their support the last 16 months, immensely appreciated. Now am looking forward to the opportunity W/ @mnwild 💪
— Daniel Winnik (@Danwinnik34) September 13, 2017
Winnik’s wife Taylor, who helped raise tens of thousands of dollars with her work on the Caps Canine Calendar, thanked fans as well.
Can't thank you enough Caps fans! Make sure you keep supporting pups by buying the Caps Canine Calendar! 😍 Here we go @mnwild! https://t.co/n52t5LPvIT
— Taylor Winnik (@TaylorWinnik) September 13, 2017
Caps fans responded in droves to thank both for their time in Washington.
We will miss you & @TaylorWinnik in DC!!!!!!
— Sheena (@CAPLDY) September 13, 2017
BOOO! The @Capitals should have resigned @Danwinnik34
— SticksFor Troops (@SticksForTroops) September 13, 2017
Thank you for all the hard work and dedication to team and our city
— J.T. Frederick (@jonfre75) September 13, 2017
They'll be lucky to have you Dan! #BestOfLuck
— robin 💜 carroll (@robinhartcarrol) September 13, 2017
Good luck in MN! U will definitely b missed in DC! We are also going 2 miss @TaylorWinnik, Mario, Sonny and Jim! You are an awesome family!
— Amy Holt (@AmyHolt927) September 13, 2017
Best of luck out there, and sincere thanks to you and @TaylorWinnik for everything. Tell Gabby DC says hi.
— Training Camp Beagle (@will_po) September 13, 2017
gonna miss you and ur wife 😢 you guys were my fave
— Sadie (@sadie_mahaffey) September 13, 2017
Best Number 26 we've had since Hendricks, you will be sorely missed. Good luck!
— Mark Flores (@DisMahgoodeye) September 13, 2017
gonna miss you Dan! Heart and soul player!
— Don (@smcultra) September 13, 2017
LOVE YOU. KILL IT, THE WILD ARE SO LUCKY TO HAVE YOU
— jocelyn ⛳️ (@fancythesnow) September 13, 2017
You can follow Daniel and his exploits in Minnesota on his new Instagram account @doingdanthings.
