Byfuglien, Thrashers Extend For Five Years And $26 Million

When the Atlanta Thrashers acquired Dustin Byfuglien during the offseason from the cap-strapped Chicago Blackhawks, they fully anticipated he would emerge as one of their top assets. The big, versatile Minnesota-native who can play both forward and defense (where he was moved back to by Atlanta) brings a tremendous mix of physical play and offensive skill to his game. And the young 25-year old pending restricted free agent has since emerged as a key to the Thrashers' roster as well as their playoff hopes.

Fully realizing how important he has become to the team and how critical he can be to the success of the franchise over the long haul, general manager Rick Dudley was able to lock Byfuglien down with a five-year, $26 million extension Tuesday.

“Dustin has emerged into an elite player this season and been invaluable as a leader both on and off the ice," said Dudley. "It was a priority to sign him and we’re looking forward to witnessing his All-Star caliber play for many years to come.”

Byfuglien, who is earning $3 million this year, will see his salary rise to $4.25 million in each of the next two campaigns, $5.75 million in 2013-14 and 2014-15, and $6 million in 2015-16. His annual cap hit will be $5.2 million.

With 43 points in 58 games, Byfuglien is Atlanta's leading scorer and ranks fifth among defenseman across the entire league. His 17 goals and seven scores on the power play rank him atop all NHL defenseman, as well.