Predators Sign Jack Hillen

Predators Sign Former Islander, Jack Hillen To A One-Year, Two-Way Deal

Official Press Release 

"Nashville, Tenn. (August 8, 2011) – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed defenseman Jack Hillen to a one-year, two-way contract worth $650,000 at the NHL level and $105,000 at the AHL level. Hillen, 25 (1/24/86), spent his first three professional seasons with the New York Islanders, most recently establishing career highs in goals (4) and points (22) while tying a personal best in assists (18) in 2010-11. The 5-10, 190-pound blueliner also ranked second on last season’s Islanders’ squad with 137 blocked shots in 64 games. In 175 career NHL contests, Hillen has 50 points (8g-42a) and 109 penalty minutes. A native of Minnetonka, Minn., Hillen played four years at Colorado College (2004-08), highlighted by a senior season that named WCHA Defensive Player of the Year, WCHA Scholar Athlete of the Year and a First-Team All-American. Signed as a free agent by the Islanders on April 1, 2008, Hillen represented the United States at the 2010 World Championships, posting one assist in six games."

PattyB Thoughts:
I am a big Jack Hillen fan and I truly believe he will be a solid everyday defenseman for the Preds. The fact that Nashville was able to get him on a two-way contract is impressive. There is literally no downside in this move because if Hillen ends up not making the team he can play in the AHL (if he passes through waivers) at only $105,000 and give the Predators a terrific first call-up option. I actually think he will end up not only making the team, but forcing his way onto the Preds second defense pair. He is an incredible skater and thats what will set him apart from other players. He plays his best hockey when he is paired with a defenseman who is good in their own zone, as it gives him the freedom to utilize his offensive skill and skating without worry. On the Predators there are quite a few defensemen who would give Hillen that needed jolt. I like this situation for Jack and I wouldn't be surprised if this turns out to be one of the best signings of this off-season. 

Contract Terms:

LENGTH: 1 YEAR(S)     VALUE: $650,000     TYPE: STANDARD     EXPIRY STATUS: RFA
SEASON	AHL SALARY	NHL SALARY	P. BONUSES	S. BONUS	CAP HIT
2011-12	$105,000	$650,000	$0	$0	$650,000

Career Statistics:

Season   Team                              Lge    GP    G    A  Pts  PIM  

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04-05  Colorado College            WCHA   30     2      9   11    20

05-06  Colorado College            WCHA   42     4      9   13    48

06-07  Colorado College            WCHA   38     7      8  15    38

07-08  Colorado College            WCHA   41     6   31   37    60

07-08  New York Islanders           NHL     2     0     1     1      4 

08-09  New York Islanders           NHL   40     1     5    6     16

08-09  Bridgeport Sound Tigers  AHL    33    4   13   17     31 

09-10   New York Islanders          NHL    69    3   18   21    44 

10-11    New York Islanders          NHL    64    4   18   22    45 

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PATTYB LINKS:

2010-11 Season Review