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Green faces pivotal season with Caps

Washington Capitals v Philadelphia Flyers

PHILADELPHIA, PA - MARCH 05: Mike Green #52 of the Washington Capitals skates against the Philadelphia Flyers at Wells Fargo Center on March 5, 2014 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. (Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

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It’s easy to dismiss Mike Green, especially after the Washington Capitals added Matt Niskanen to the mix, but he could lose or gain quite a few millions depending upon how he performs during the 2014-15 season.

Remember when Green’s point totals were downplayed in Norris Trophy considerations? That seems like quite a while ago, and to some extent it’s true. The 28-year-old has generated more modest numbers the last four seasons and, to be fair, a 38-point campaign would be a nice year for a healthy number of blueliners, but for Green it’s still a disappointment.

Niskanen (aka the guy who essentially replaces Green in many peoples’ eyes) provides ample evidence that a single season can amplify a defenseman’s status dramatically, so it’s all about opportunity for Green.

Maybe the biggest factor is health.

Green was limited to 70 games last season, only played in 35 out of 48 lockout-shortened games in 2012-13 and has only managed a full season once in his NHL career. Attribute that to his shaky health, tendency to hold onto the puck too much or not, but a healthy season could open the door for Green to make a lot of money and help the Capitals in the process.

There are plenty of variables involved - maybe most importantly how tolerant Barry Trotz will be toward Green taking the occasional chance - but Green can ultimately enjoy a big payday if everything goes right next season.

It’s easy to question the chances of working out ... but how might someone have felt about making the same kind of prediction about Niskanen in August 2013?

Follow James O’Brien @cyclelikesedins