Panthers Sign Keaton Ellerby to One-Year Contract

The Florida Panthers announced on Wednesday that they have signed defenseman Keaton Ellerby to a one-year contract extension. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed, but the deal is a one-way contract, which means he will earn the same salary regardless of the level he plays at next season. He would have been a restricted free agent this summer. In 54 games this past season, he had two goals and 10 assists for 12 points. Not a bad signing for the Panthers, as Ellerby is still considered one of their top defensive prospects. He has good size, plenty of shutdown and defensive potential, and a little offensive ability. He will likely land a permanent role on the blueline next season as the Panthers continue their seemingly never-ending rebuilding process.

Capitals Sign Mike Knuble to One-Year Extension

The Washington Capitals announced today that they have signed right wing Mike Knuble to a one-year contract extension worth $2 million. He would have been an unrestricted free agent this summer. In 79 games this season, he had 24 goals and 16 assists for 40 points. In 968 career NHL games with the Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers, Boston Bruins, Philadelphia Flyers, and Washington Capitals, he has 268 goals and 254 assists for 522 points. This is a decent signing for the Capitals, as Knuble is a hard worker on the ice and is a good leader. He's also excellent on the power play and penalty kill and is a reliable goal scorer. He should continue to be a good fit on the wing for the Capitals next season.

Adam Foote Announces His Retirement

After a 19-year NHL career, Colorado Avalanche defenseman Adam Foote has decided to retire. The 39-year-old defenseman announced on April 8 that he will play his last game on April 10 against the Edmonton Oilers. He has been sidelined since mid-March with a leg injury, but has stated he will suit up for one last game on Sunday. In 46 games this season, he has eight assists and 33 penalty minutes. In 1153 career NHL games with the Quebec Nordiques/Colorado Avalanche and Columbus Blue Jackets, he has 66 goals and 242 assists for 308 points and 1534 penalty minutes. He won the Stanley Cup twice with Colorado, 1996 and 2001, and an Olympic Gold medal in 2002 as a member of Team Canada. Foote was always a very steady and physical defenseman throughout his NHL career and also had good leadership qualities. His services to the Avalanche on and off the ice and in the locker room will surely be missed by the team.