Signing defenseman Alex Goligoski to a new four-year, $18.4 million contract extension Monday at a salary cap hit of $4.6 million per season, the Dallas Stars managed to keep one of their core players in town for a long time.

Goligoski, who would have become a restricted free agent next summer, has enjoyed his time in Dallas since the Stars acquired him from Pittsburgh last February 21st in exchange for James Neal and Matt Niskanen.

Goligoski, 26, has registered five goals, 10 assists in 36 games this season.

“It’s flattering, humbling, there’s a lot of emotions that go with it,” said the 5-foot-11, 181-pound native of Grand Rapids, Minn., regarding the extension. “For me personally, I’m glad the process is over and I’m really excited for the next four years here.”


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