Even though most of the big-name players have already been snatched off the free-agent market, teams are still signing more free agents and locking up their own restricted free agents. The Blue Jackets added another new face, while the Rangers and Canadiens avoided arbitration with a couple new contracts.
The Blue Jackets added to their free agency shopping spree by signing Vinny Prospal to a reported $1.75 million, according to NHL.com. In 2010-11, Prospal played in 29 games and scored nine goals and 23 points. In the 2009-10 season, Prospal played in 75 games and scored 58 points.
The Rangers may have lost Prospal, but they made sure that Brandon Dubinsky is sticking around for at least four more years. The 25-year-old signed a four-year deal reportedly worth $16.8 million. Dubinsky, who was drafted by the Rangers, scored 24 goals and 54 points last year.
Meanwhile, the Canadiens avoided arbitration by agreeing to a one-year, 2.5 deal with restricted free agent Josh Gorges, TSN.com reports. Gorges played in just 36 games last year, recording seven points.
