STOCKHOLM, (OTHL) - - Zdeno Chara is not only a big player on the ice, he was also one of the big targets on the free agent market, and today he decided where he is going to play next season. The 6'9 defender opted to sign with the New Jersey Devils, where he will join fellow Slovak Marian Hossa in there quest for the Stanley Cup.
Chara's contract is over 5 years and will pay him handsome, as he will get a annual salary of $10 million dollars. The contract also included a no-trade clause, which will prevent any chances of trading him, without his consent.
"It was not just about the money, it was about job security and the chance to play for a top team in the league. The New Jersey Devils are always a top team, they have one of the best goaltenders in the league in Martin Brodeur, and they have a very good defensive core. So it was the total package that drew me to New Jersey." - Zdeno Chara said.
Elsewhere the St Louis Blues signed Mark Mowers, while Ottawa who lost out to both Jaromir Jagr and Zdeno Chara, signed Ken Klee and Geoff Sanderson.
COMPLETE LIST OF SIGNINGS SO FAR