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Washington Capitals center Mike Ribeiro is enjoying a career renaissance this season and the pending free agent would like to stay in D.C. long term, according to a report.
Per Stephen Whyno of the Washington Times,Ribeiro is looking to stick with the Capitals long term and isn't necessarily interested in short contracts that have him switching teams every few years.
"Five years for me is long term," said Ribeiro, when asked what he considered to be a long term contract. "Two, three years I don't think it's long term. It's short-term. Two, three is short term. Four, five, six [is] long-term. Then 10 years like Ovi, that's a marriage thing."
Ribiero goes on to state that with his wife and children involved in the process, he wants to find a long term destination for his family where he could remain even after his playing career is done. At 33 years old, a five-year contract could conceivably take the center to the end of his career.
With 10 goals and 24 points this season, Ribeiro leads the Capitals in points and is tied for the team lead in assists. After a few rough seasons in Dallas, Ribeiro's playing style has transferred wonderfully to the East Coast and it's apparent he'd more than like to remain there after this season.
Ribeiro's name has cropped up in recent trade rumors, although nothing has suggested the Capitals are currently looking to move their leading scorer.
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