Montreal Canadiens defenceman Josh Gorges during team practice at the Bell Centre in Montreal, Tuesday April 20, 2010, ahead of game 4 of their series against the Washington Capitals on Wednesday. The Capitals lead the series 2-1. |
Gorges, who had an arbitration hearing scheduled for Thursday, has agreed to a one-year deal worth $2.5 million. The two sides had been negotiating a longer term but concerns about Gorges’ health - he underwent season-ending knee surgery in January - probably played a part in the Canadiens’ reluctance to give him a multi-year deal at his price. As it is, Gorges gets a healthy boost from the $1.3 million he made last season.
The compromise opens the door for Gorges to cash in next summer if he has a good season. He is eligible to become an unrestricted free agent on July 1, 2012.
The signing Friday gives general manager Pierre Gauthier 21 players under contract and he has money left over to go shopping for a forward. The Canadiens have a shade over $5 million left before hitting the $64.3 million salary cap.
Montreal Canadiens sign Josh Gorges to one-year contract
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