Canadiens Sign Andrei Kostitsyn to One-Year Contract

The Montreal Canadiens announced on Thursday that they have signed right wing Andrei Kostitsyn to a one-year contract extension worth $3.25 million. He would have been a restricted free agent on July 1. In 81 games this past season, he had 20 goals and 25 assists for 45 points. In 326 career NHL games, all with Montreal, he has 87 goals and 99 assists for 186 points. Not a bad signing for the Canadiens, as Kostitsyn provides plenty of offensive depth for the club. He has a good shot and can score goals, but can be very inconsistent in his scoring. The 2011-12 season will be an important one for Kostitsyn, as his offensive play will likely determine whether or not the Canadiens re-sign him next summer when he will be eligible for unrestricted free agency. If he can improve on his play from last season, the team may look to keep him for a few more seasons.