Blackhawks Sign David Rundblad To 2-Year Extension
By Chris Emma--
(CBS) The Chicago Blackhawks have made their first re-signing of the busy offseason, giving defenseman David Rundblad a two-year extension, the team said Monday. His contract is for $1 million a year, according to a report from Elliotte Friedman of Sportsnet.
Rundblad, 24, played in 49 regular-season games, tallying three goals, 11 assists and a +17 rating. He participated in five postseason contests during the Blackhawks' run to the Stanley Cup.
In locking Rundblad to a new deal, the Blackhawks secured defensive depth on a cap-friendly contract that allows flexibility for major moves to come. Chicago general manager Stan Bowman has reportedly been exploring trades for forwards Patrick Sharp, Bryan Bickell and Kris Versteeg, each of whom carries contracts that could open up cap room.
The NHL's hard cap is set at $71.4 million, and the Blackhawks now stand at just over $65 million committed to the 2015-'16 season. However, more moves are sure to follow.
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