Penguins Sign James Neal to Six-Year Extension

The Pittsburgh Penguins locked up an important part of their future on Sunday by signing right wing James Neal to a six-year contract extension worth $30 million. The deal averages out to $5 million per season. He would have been eligible for restricted free agency in the off-season. In 59 games so far this season, he has 30 goals and 27 assists for 57 points and 66 penalty minutes. This is an excellent move for the Penguins, as Neal has become one the team's top forwards since his acquisition from the Dallas Stars last season. He has excellent goal scoring skill, a great shot, plenty of offensive talent, good size, and plays with a little grit. With his best years still ahead of him, look for Neal to greatly improve his offensive game over the next few seasons, especially if playing on a line with Evgeni Malkin and Sidney Crosby.