Leafs Ink Colaiacovo to New Deal

[Thrillhouse]

John Ferguson, vice-president and general manager of the Toronto Maple Leafs, announced Thursday that the club has signed defenceman Carlo Colaiacovo to a three-year contract extension.

"Carlo made real strides as an NHL defenceman this past season and we look forward to having him as an integral part of our defence for the next three years," said Ferguson.

Colaiacovo, 24, played in 48 games for the Maple Leafs in 2006-07 registering eight goals and nine assists for 17 points, along with 22 penalty minutes and a +5 plus/minus rating. Among NHL rookie defencemen this past season, Colaiacovo ranked second in goals and sixth in points.

Colaiacovo was the Maple Leafs nominee for the 2007 Bill Masterton Memorial Trophy, awarded for ‘perseverance, sportsmanship and dedication to hockey’ as voted by the local hockey writers. The Toronto native was originally the Maple Leafs first choice, selected 17th overall, in the 2001 NHL Entry Draft.

[blackngold]

hes made of glass

[Cat Smasher]

going with the JFJ flow, i will assume we over paid once again...but we shall see...

[Thrillhouse]

3 years, $3.85 million, great deal. There were reports that they were far apart but I'm happy with the numbers. Here's hoping for an 80+ game season.

[JKidd]

Kid can hit like an animal - but is constantly hurt. Not the best mix to have, being a physical guy and being fragile. Hopefully breaks that label/mold and is able to put together a full season.

[BrianTheAdsFan]

Sounds like he just has to pick his shots a little better. Good young defensemen that can score and play D will be a bargin at that price if he continues to develop.

[swhite]

Solid signing, when healthy Carlo is a definite asset to the team.