This afternoon, the Panthers announced that Keith Ballard, the hard-hitting puck-mover acquired in the Jokinen deal in January, has signed a six-year contract extension. The release doesn't cite the financial terms of the deal, but according to The Canadian Press, the deal is reported to be worth $25.2M.
From the Panthers' release: "Keith is a talented, puck moving defenseman, that plays a robust style, who will play a pivotal role on our team for many years to come. . . Since we acquired Keith at the draft this year, it has always been a top priority to reach a long term extension with him. We are very pleased to have reached this agreement prior to the start of training camp and we are confident that he will play a major role in the future success of the Florida Panthers organization."
The signing brings three of the Panthers' top four under contract through at least the next three seasons, but Jacques Martin's commitment to building this core and keeping them together is certainly a positive direction to take.
It's also the second six year extension that has been handed out this offseason by JM. Back in June, Rostislav Olesz signed a six year deal worth $18.75M.
So while the days pass by and the season creeps closer, enjoy this fan tribute video to Keith Ballard from his Phoenix days.
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