Joel Ward: Signs Three-Year Deal with Sharks

Ward kept up his reputation as a valuable checking forward last season, playing in 39 of 48 games, but notching just 20 points with eight goals and 12 assists. The Caps have him signed for two more years but fantasy owners should not expect much return on any investment made in Ward.

Ward cashed in on a strong 2011 postseason with Nashville to sign a free-agent contract with the Caps last summer. However, his first year in the District was a little underwhelming, as Ward registered just 18 points in 73 games with his crowning moment being the series-clinching overtime winner in Washington's upset of Boston in the first round last spring. Ward is a checking forward that will not be relied…