Predators Sign Joel Ward to Two-Year Contract

[chilly666]

Nashville, Tenn. – Nashville Predators President of Hockey Operations/General Manager David Poile announced today that the club has signed Joel Ward to a two-year contract worth a total of $3 million.

Ward, 28 (12/2/80), posted 35 points (17g-18a) in 79 games with Nashville in 2008-09, his first full National Hockey League season. His goal total tied for fourth on the club, and the Predators posted a 10-2-2 record when the 6-1, 220-pound right wing scored a goal. The Toronto, Ont., native also tied for eighth among NHL forwards in blocked shots (69), and fourth on the club in average shorthanded ice time.

Prior to signing with Nashville, Ward spent three seasons in the Minnesota organization, playing 11 NHL games with the Wild in 2006-07 (0g-1a-1pt) and 209 AHL games with the Houston Aeros (38g-48a-86pts). He is a graduate of the University of Prince Edward Island, where he played four seasons for the Panthers (2001-05), notching 135 points (76g-76a) in 96 games.

[Snipes19]

Wasn't expecting this. I thought another team was going to throw a big offer at him on the open market.

But a great signing by the Preds nonetheless. Ward is a terrific 3rd-line guy who can kill penalties, forecheck, and do all the dirty work. He's the perfect "utility" guy who played real well last year and definitely earned a raise. Every team could use a guy like him.

[BrianTheAdsFan]

From all accounts, Poile didn't want to pay him this much.

Glad they signed him.