Denver, CO – The Colorado Avalanche made an investment for their future on Thursday, agreeing to terms with captain Gabriel Landeskog on a seven-year contract extension.
The 20-year-old was set to become a restricted free agent next summer, upon the completion of his initial three-year, entry-level contract signed shortly after Colorado plucked him with the second-overall pick in the 2011 draft.
No financial terms were revealed, but TSN of Canada reports it is worth $39 million and includes a modified no-trade clause.
"Gabe is and will continue to be a large part of the foundation of this hockey team for many years to come," said Avalanche Executive Vice President of Hockey Operations Joe Sakic. "Signing our captain to a long-term extension demonstrates the commitment of Stan and Josh Kroenke to this franchise and to our fan base. In just two seasons, Gabe has already proven to be a great asset to our organization both on and off the ice. The fact that he has agreed to a long-term deal shows that he believes in this team, his teammates and the direction of this franchise moving forward."
The native of Stockholm was limited to 36 regular-season games, during which he posted nine goals and 17 points. Over 118 games in two NHL campaigns, the 2012 Calder Trophy Winning Landeskog has tallied 31 goals and 38 assists.
When he was presented as team captain last September, Landeskog became the youngest player in league history to assume the post at 19 years, 286 days -- 11 days younger than Pittsburgh's Sidney Crosby.
"I would like to thank the Kroenke family and the entire Avalanche organization for their trust and belief in me," Landeskog said. "I love Colorado and I love being a part of this wonderful community. There is no other place I'd rather be than in Denver wearing the Avalanche logo. I am looking forward to training camp and the upcoming season."
Receive your weekly recap of all the happenings around the world of sports.