NHL-Caps take Weber from Sabres to strengthen defense

Feb 23 (Reuters) - The Washington Capitals acquired defenseman Mike Weber in a trade with the Buffalo Sabres on Tuesday as the top-ranked NHL team added depth to their roster ahead of the playoffs. Washington, who lead NHL standings with a 44-10-4 record, sent a third-round pick in the 2017 Draft to Buffalo in exchange for the 28-year-old Weber, who can provide the Capitals with another physical option to put on the ice. "We are pleased to welcome Mike to our organisation," Capitals general manager Brian MacLellan told reporters. "Mike is a stay-at-home defenseman who plays a physical game and is respected by his team mates. "We felt it was important to add depth to our blue line by adding another quality veteran defenseman." In-form Washington have won nine of their last 10 games and will return to the ice on Wednesday with a home encounter against the Montreal Canadiens. (Writing by Jahmal Corner in Los Angeles; Editing by John O'Brien)