Avalanche Sign Stastny to 5-Year Extension

The Colorado Avalanche have announced that they have signed center Paul Stastny to a five-year contract extension worth $33 million. The deal averages out to $6.6 million per season. Stastny was in the final year of his current contract and would have been a restricted free agent at the end of the season. Last season, Stastny played in 66 games with the Avalanche, scoring 24 goals and 47 assists for 71 points. He missed 15 games in January and February with a groin injury and appendicitis. So far this season, Stastny has played in 17 games, scoring three goals and 12 assists for 15 points. This is an excellent signing for the Avalanche as Stastny has proven over the past two seasons that he will be the new franchise player in Colorado. He has excellent offensive and skills and great speed on the ice, which will only improve with time.