Calgary Flames secure Detroit Red Wings' Jiri Hudler with four-year, $16 million contract-NHL Update
Calgary Flames continue to wow circles around the National Hockey League (NHL) as they acquired yet another top level forward, this time, Detroit Red Wings’ unrestricted free agent Jiri Hudler.
The Canadian based franchise signed on the veteran centre player to a long-term, four-year, $16 million contract on Monday, July 2, 2012, giving him an annual salary cap hit of $4 million.
For the forward, it is a boost of nearly $1.2 million annually from his previous contract with the Detroit Red Wings, which was of two years and a total of $5.75 million.
Calgary Flames general manager, Jay Feaster, was the one to make the announcement of his second big signing since bringing on board Washington Capitals’ Dennis Wideman.
“Jiri Hudler is a highly skilled and dynamic offensive player,” Feaster said in a statement. “He is one of the very best goal scorers in the NHL at even strength, and he puts a very high percentage of his shots on net, generating scoring chances for himself and rebound opportunities for his teammates. He fits our need to upgrade and improve our skill, and we are very pleased to have him on board.”
Hudler was picked up by Detroit Red Wings back in the 2002 NHL Entry Draft as the 58th overall player during round-two. He has been a part of the Red Wings franchise ever since and has a total of 409 games played and 214 points (87 goals, 127 assists) under his belt.
For Hudler, it seems to be the right move as he was looking for more time on the ice but with a star studded Detroit Red Wings team, it was not always easy debating to be out on top. According to sources, Calgary Flames plan on using him in the top one or two line-ups and is expected to boost the club for sure.
Last season was one of his best since the 2008-2009 regular season as he potted 25 goals and as many assists for a total of 50 points and a plus-minus rating of 10.
With the immense amount of talent now part of the Calgary Flames, seeing them play next season will definitely be something fans are looking forward to.
Tags: