Erik Karlsson re-signed (7 years ,$45.5 mil ,$6.5 cap hit)

[BigLeagueChew]

http://www.tsn.ca/nhl/story/?id=398747

"We are extremely pleased to announce that Erik Karlsson's contract has been extended for seven more years," Senators owner Eugene Melnyk said in a press release.

"Erik is the type of player and person that embodies an Ottawa Senator, and we are confident that on a personal basis, he will quickly become a role model for many of our young Sens fans and a great contributor to our community. We feel strongly that this long-term commitment will be great for both sides. As one of the cornerstones of our franchise, Erik will be a large part of the future success that Senators fans can look forward to."

Karlsson led all NHL blueliners last season with 78 points. The 22-year-old Swede had 19 goals and 59 assists and was an All-Star for the second year in a row.

[BigSlam]

Awesome, awesome signing.

[rattler280]

Huge year coming up. Will be interesting to see what happens next summer.

If he gets past next summer unsigned you have to trade him. Can't let that asset walk for nothing. Obviously there will be a blank cheque. He brings in more money than anything we can pay him. Frankly, I don't want to see the state of this franchise if EK decides he wants out.