The Colorado Avalanche continued to extend long-term contracts in an effort to retain talent before the start of free agency. Winger David Jones is the latest recipient of a long term deal, receiving a four year contract valued at $16 million, according to Adrian Dater of the Denver Post.
Jones, 27, was on the brink of entering unrestricted free agency for the first time in his career. Both sides had expressed interest in retaining Jones, and a deal has been reached. Plagued by injuries (including a torn ACL) early in his career, the winger has rebounded to score 47 goals in the past two seasons.
With Cody McLeod and now David Jones earning multi-year contracts, expect to see substantial contract offers to the big name restricted free agents on the roster, including Matt Duchene, Erik Johnson, Steve Downie, and Ryan O'Reilly.
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