Minnesota Wild re-sign enforcer Matt Kassian to 2-year, $1.15 million deal -NHL Update
Minnesota Wild announced the re-signing of their 25-year-old enforcer, Matt Kassian, to a two-year, $1.15 two-way deal on Friday, June 29, 2012, saving the player from testing the free agency.
Kassian proved to be an asset this past 2011-2012 National Hockey League (NHL) regular season with his physical style of play and enforcing the offensive side of the play.
His new contract comes with a slight boost in annual salary as Kassian’s previous deal was a two-year, $1.025 million one with an annual cap hit of $512,500 compared to the new contract which has a $575,000 amount in yearly pay.
Drafted as the 57th overall player during the second round of 2005 NHL Entry Draft by Minnesota Wild, Kassian has appeared in two seasons with Minnesota Wild up until now.
Since his draft, Kassian has been playing a majority of his games with the Wild’s affiliate in the American Hockey League (AHL), the Houston Aeros. Back in 2010-2011, Kassian played his first four games with the Wild and 60 with Houston in which he registered
eight points (4 goals, 4 assists) in 60 games.
Last season was a career high in the NHL for Kassian, appearing in 24 games and putting up two goals as a left winger.
Minnesota Wild got off to a great start last season and were at one point atop the Western Conference, but unable to sustain their position, the franchise ended the regular season once again in the bottom portions.
The Wild had 81 points and finished off at number 12, over 10 points below the playoff line. Next season will definitely be one which Minnesota will be looking to cross that line and make it into the postseason.
Having players like Matt Kassian and investing more time in their playing, Minnesota Wild just might be able to achieve the set goals when the time comes. Enforcers are always an essential part of any squad and Kassian has definitely showed much potential
last season.
Next season will be exciting for Wild fans as the team gets ready to start afresh and make the required changes before then.
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