If you can't beat 'em, raid 'em.

The Washington Capitals, who were swept by Detroit in the Stanley Cup Finals, yesterday signed former Red Wings defenseman Dmitri Mironov, an unrestricted free agent whose slap shot is one of the hardest in the NHL.

Mironov, 32, split last season between the Mighty Ducks of Anaheim and the Red Wings, finishing with eight goals and 35 assists in 77 games. The offensive-minded defenseman was a healthy scratch for 15 of 22 playoff games.

"Dmitri adds mobility, size and offense," said general manager George McPhee. "He is also very effective on the power play."

Pub Date: 7/15/98