FILE - In this April 14, 2014 file photo, Montreal Canadiens left wing Thomas Vanek stretches during the team's hockey practice in Brossard, Quebec. NHL teams can begin making deals with free agents Tuesday, July 1, 2014. (AP Photo/The Canadian Press, Ryan Remiorz, File)
July 01, 2014 - 10:54 AM
ST.PAUL, Minn. - Thomas Vanek has signed a US$19.5-million, three-year deal with the Minnesota Wild.
Vanek, the best player available on the free-agent market, appeared to turn a longer term and larger salary to sign with Minnesota.
The 30-year-old winger had 15 goals in 18 games since being traded to the Montreal Canadiens at the deadline, then five goals and five assists in the playoffs.
In his NHL career, Vanek has 277 goals and 279 assists in 663 games with the Buffalo Sabres, New York Islanders and Canadiens.
Vanek's wife is from Minnesota and the Austrian makes his off-season home there, making the Wild a preferred destination for him.
News from © The Canadian Press, 2014