San Jose Sharks sign veteran forward Brad Winchester to one-year deal -NHL News Update
Brad Winchester, a veteran left winger who played his last season with Anaheim Ducks, found a place in the National Hockey League (NHL) as San Jose Sharks signed him on to a one-year contract to complete their roster before the 2011-2012 regular season officially
kicks off.
The one-year deal between San Jose and Brad Winchester is believed to be worth $700,000 if he plays either in the NHL or is sent to the American Hockey League (AHL).
Winchester, a former 35th overall draft selection during round-two of the 2000 NHL Entry Draft by Edmonton Oilers, failed to perform up to expectations throughout the six seasons he has been in the major league with various teams.
Finding another opportunity, Winchester agreed to sign a tryout contract with San Jose Sharks over the offseason and before their training camp session began.
The 30-year-old performed beyond potential during the five preseason matchups he participated in with the San Jose franchise as he put up two points (1 goal, 1 assists) along with a team high of 18 minutes in penalty time.
"We feel that our training camp was as competitive as it ever has been and Brad came into it and earned a spot on our roster", Sharks General Manager, Doug Wilson, said. "He brings a rugged, veteran presence to our line-up and he does whatever it takes to
be a good teammate".
Hailing from Madison, Wisconsin, United States, Brad Winchester has played a total of 323 games so far in the NHL, while contributing 58 points (31 goals, 27 assists) in total with teams like Edmonton Oilers, Dallas Stars, St. Louis Blues and Anaheim Ducks.
His penalty minutes have widely made him known to be a physical player (464 minutes), which gives teams that extra physical aspect in their game.
Last season, Brad Winchester was traded from St. Louis to Anaheim with whom he played 57 and 19 games respectively and potting 16 points (10 goals, 6 assists) in total.
As the new regular season is right around the corner, Winchester will have to prove to San Jose that he truly is a keeper.
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