Photo: Chris Gordon

Original young gun, Mike Green, is set to become an unrestricted free agent this summer. Green has arguably been the team’s best defenseman this season. He’s fourth on the team in points (39) and has the best possession (52.6 percent) among regular Caps defenseman. He improved the Capitals’ shot-attempt percentage two percent when he’s on the ice (after adjusting for score effects). He’s a big part of the team’s success.

So far this season, general manager Brian MacLellan has been vague on Green’s future as the $6.25-million defenseman has had his name bandied about in trade rumors. Meanwhile, Barry Trotz believes some legwork has been done already for a new contract.

When speaking to Sportsnet about Green’s upcoming UFA status in February, Trotz said, “I think Mac is talking to him, and talking to his representative about what they’re looking to do. We’re in that process I’m sure.”

Trotz said that Green is “an important piece.”

On Sunday, I asked Green what exactly was going on.

He once again stated his desire is to remain with the team.

“My heart is in Washington,” Green said. “It always will be until something else happens. My focus is here. My focus is winning a championship here and giving that to the fans. As an organization, that’s what we want as a team. I’m a part of that until the day I die or retire.”

When I asked if the Caps have spoken with his agent about the parameters of a new deal, Green was unsure.

“You know what, I don’t pay attention,” Green responded. “Maybe they have. I’m just focused on what we’re doing here this season. If I get wrapped up in that, then that’s a distraction.”

“I don’t want any distractions this year,” Green concluded. “I’m just focused on one goal and it’s the team’s goal: to win a Cup.”