The Dallas Stars landed one of the top names in this year’s free-agent class Monday by signing forward Alexander Radulov to a $ 31.25-million US, five-year contract.
He had 54 points (18 goals, 36 assists) in 76 regular season games with the Montreal Canadiens last season.
“Alexander is a dynamic playmaker with top-end speed and skill,” Stars general manager Jim Nill said in a statement. “To add a forward of this stature to our lineup makes our top six as deep and talented as any group in this league.”
Over four NHL seasons, Radulov has 156 points (65-91) in 230 regular season games with the Canadiens and Nashville Predators.
Hemsky sees ‘good opportunity’
However, the Canadiens agreed to terms on a one-year contract with free agent forward Ales Hemsky. The deal is worth $ 1 million.
The 33-year-old Czech missed most of the 2016-17 campaign after undergoing hip surgery. Hemsky had seven points (4-3) in 15 games with the Dallas Stars last season.
“I’m training at 100 per cent and I’m back to 100 per cent right now,” Hemsky said on a conference call. “So I’m sure I’ll be ready for the season and for training camp. I’m excited for that.”
Hemsky made his NHL debut with Edmonton in 2002-03 and spent over a decade with the Oilers.
In 838 career regular-season games, Hemsky has 174 goals and 398 assists for 572 points. He has 21 points (7-14) in 43 playoff games.
“It happened really quick,” Hemsky said of the signing process. “I had to make a choice so I did today and signed with Montreal. It will be a good opportunity for me.”