Flames Sign Chris Butler to Two-Year Deal

The Calgary Flames have announced that they have signed defenseman Chris Butler to a two-year contract worth $2.5 million. The deal will pay him $1.25 million per season. He was acquired by the Flames on June 25 from the Buffalo Sabres along with Paul Byron in exchange for Robyn Regehr, Ales Kotalik, and Calgary's second round pick in the 2012 Entry Draft. In 49 games last season with the Sabres, Butler had two goals and seven assists for nine points. Not a bad signing for the Flames, as Butler will bring plenty of puck-moving skill and depth to their blueline. With a bigger role in Calgary, look for him to improve his game over the next two seasons.