Rangers sign defenseman Marc Staal to contract extension
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The New York Rangers have signed defenseman Marc Staal to a contract extension, the team announced Sunday.
The Rangers didn't announce the terms of the extension, but it was reported Friday that Staal was set to sign a six-year deal worth $5.7 million per season.
Staal was set to become an unrestricted free agent at the end of this season.
“Marc has been one of the cornerstones of our team since he arrived in New York,” general manager Glen Sather said. “His commitment and perseverance to the Rangers, and the game of hockey, has been an inspiration for everyone in the organization, and he has become a role model for young players and veterans alike. We are excited that he will continue to provide that leadership in a Rangers uniform.”
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Staal was originally selected by the Rangers with the No. 12 pick of the 2005 NHL draft.
Since debuting with New York in 2007-08, Staal is second among all Rangers in games played (503), is tied for second among Rangers defensemen in goals (29) and ranks third among defensemen in assists (90) and points (119). He made the All-Star team in 2011.
Staal has recorded eight points and a plus/minus of six in 42 games this season.
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The Rangers are 26-13-4 and tied for third in the Metropolitan Division with the Washington Capitals. They next play on Tuesday against the Ottawa Senators.
- Ben Estes