Columbus Blue Jacket sign Unrestricted Free Agent Vinny Prospal to one-year, $1.75 million
After nearly a month of trying to find a new team, Vinny Prospal, a veteran centre player who finished off his 13th season in the National Hockey League (NHL) with New York Rangers, was finally signed on by Columbus Blue Jackets to a one-year
contract, worth an estimated $1.75 million, on Saturday, July 23.
Many people might underestimate Prospal’s abilities due to an injury-riddled last season, which limited him to play in only 29 games, but in which he still managed to score 23 points (9 goals, 14 assists). Viewing his past record, it can easily be said that
Vinny Prospal is a hidden gem.
Columbus Blue Jackets general manager, Scott Howson, proved himself to be one of those people who could spot a diamond in a pile of hay as he made the announcement via social networking site, Twitter.
"Vinny Prospal is a proven top-six forward in the National Hockey League and we look forward to him playing that role for our hockey club", Howson said. "We are very pleased to be able to add a player of his caliber to our team at this late date in the free
agency process".
The 36-year-old forward was drafted in the 1993 NHL Entry Draft as 71st overall pick during round-three by Philadelphia Flyers. Prospal continued to play with his original draft team for two seasons but was traded to Ottawa Senators during the
second year.
Throughout his career, Prospal has graced the likes of teams such as Florida Panthers, Tampa Bay Lightning, Anaheim Ducks and New York Rangers.
His best season was during 2005-2006 with Tampa Bay Lightning, in which he appeared in 81 games and registered a career high of 80 points (25 goals, 55 assists).
Columbus got the right player at exactly the right time, since they needed to replace Kristian Huselius, who tore his pectoral muscle recently and is expected to miss 4-6 months, which could mean he will be out up until January.
According to analysts, if the upcoming season remains injury-filled for the Czech Republic national, than it is easy to say, it will be his last, but if he can remain healthy and put up the numbers, than there is no telling how long he could continue.
Tags: