Richard Panik signs two-year extension with Blackhawks

The Chicago Blackhawks have signed Richard Panik to a two-year extension worth $2.8 million per season. 

The Chicago Blackhawks face a critical offseason as they try to improve their team while navigating the turmoils of the NHL salary cap. It’s something they’re used to, so this is nothing new. Their offseason is off to a nice start, as the Blackhawks have re-signed restricted free agent forward Richard Panik to a two-year deal. Pierre LeBrun reports the deal has an average annual value, or cap hit, of $2.8 million.

“Richard made tremendous strides this past year and we were pleased with the consistency he showed throughout the season,” said Senior Vice President and General Manager Stan Bowman, via NHL.com. “We are looking forward to having him in Chicago for the next two seasons.”

Overall, this is a great deal for the Blackhawks. Panik is coming off a career year, during which he set personal bests in goals (22), assists (22) and points (44) in 82 games. It’s the first time in his career he’s played all 82 games in a single NHL season. Panik also put up 147 hits last season. He earned some playing time alongside Jonathan Toews because he’s a very good two-way player.

Panik’s 2016-17 season might be a fluke. The short-term deal keeps it from hurting Chicago too much if it was. However, if Panik’s season wasn’t a fluke, the Blackhawks have him at an excellent value. Chicago needs to get value out of their forwards with how their team is set up. Panik unquestionably provides value with this deal.

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The Blackhawks have more work to do this offseason, but it’s off to a great start. Panik is an important guy for them and could see more playing time next season.