The Montreal Canadiens rewarded goaltender Jaroslav Halak on Tuesday with a new two-year contract.
Halak, 23, will earn $1.5 million US in total over the duration of the deal.
The Slovakian netminder has three shutouts, a 2.71 goals-against average and a .913 save percentage in 22 games with Montreal over the past two seasons.
He also got his first taste of NHL playoff action in May, making two appearances (one start) and allowing just three goals in 77 minutes of action for the Habs.
"Jaroslav has proven to be a quality NHL goaltender. He played very well for us when called upon over the past two seasons. He is young competitor with great skills and an excellent work ethic," Canadiens general manager Bob Gainey said in a statement.
Halak is expected to back up Carey Price, with long-time NHL goaltender Marc Denis signed last week to give the organization depth at the position.
Halak was drafted in the ninth round by Montreal in the 2003 NHL entry draft. He has represented his country three times at world junior and senior hockey championships.
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Contact Us About Us HomeThursday, August 28th, 2008