Alexsey Emelin Signs With Montreal

Alexsey Emelin Signs With Canadiens

The Montreal Canadiens have signed defenseman, Alexsey Emelin to a one-year contract. Emelin was drafted by the Canadiens all the way back in 2004 with the 84th overall selection of that draft. Its been a hard process the Canadiens have had to endure to try and convince him to leave the KHL and play in North America, but it looks as though it has paid off. The contract itself is a two-way agreement that well pay him $984,200 in the NHL. There is a catch to the deal though, there is a clause in the contract that states that he cannot be sent to the AHL, and instead will be sent to the KHL if he does not make the team or is cut at any time. This past season was really impressive for the 25 year-old defenseman as he put up a career high in goals (11), assists (16), for 27 overall points in 52 games. As a primarily defensive defenseman, its surprising he was that effective offensively. He also has a very intimidating mean streak as shown by his 92 penalty minutes.

The Habs GM Pierre Gauthier had this to say:

"Alexei is a steady, physical defenceman with strong skating ability, the experience he has acquired in the KHL over the past few years will make for a smooth transition to the NHL."

Contract Information:

LENGTH: 1 YEAR(S)     VALUE: $984,200     TYPE: ENTRY LEVEL     EXPIRY STATUS: RFA