FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Chicago, May 11th 2006 Tuomo Ruutu (24) has signed a 1 year extension with the Chicago Blackhawks. The 6'2, 205 lbs winger who was drafted #8 overall in the 2002 entry, was fourth on the team in scoring this past season with 17 goals and 48 points in 82 games. Ruutu also had a -8 rating and 82 penalty minutes.
"We are very happy to have Tuomo Ruutu signed for one more season, and I think both parties will try hard to get a long term deal during next season. I know some harsh words have been said in the press, but thats the way it goes sometimes. Now everyone are looking forward to next season, and the past is in the past." - GM Mathias Vaigur said.
"I am happy to re-sign with Chicago. They are the team that drafted me, and I know that I am a big part of this team. I also think this is a team that can be a force in the future. Its still a young team, but as we move on, we can became a top team in this league." - Ruutu said from his summer home in Finland.
The financial terms of the deal are not disclosed, due to the team policy.