Predators Sign Paul Gaustad to Four-Year Deal

The Nashville Predators announced on Saturday that they have re-signed center Paul Gaustad to a four-year contract worth $13 million.  The deal will average out to $3.25 million per season.  Nashville acquired the 30-year-old center and a fourth round pick in the 2013 Entry Draft on February 27 from the Buffalo Sabres in exchange for Nashville's first round pick in the 2012 Entry Draft.  In 70 games last season with Buffalo and Nashville, he had seven goals and 14 assists for 21 points and 76 penalty minutes.  He added one goal and one assist in 10 playoff games.  Not a bad move for the Predators, as Gaustad brings plenty of skill to the forward lines.  He brings lots of grit, toughness, size, defensive skill, and versatility to the checking lines and should help the Predators continue to be a competitive team in the Western Conference.