Flames Lock Up Giordano for 5 Years

  Although the news is a bit late, it is certainly well worth mention.

  The Calgary Flames have announced that they have come to terms with 27 year-old defenseman Mark Giordano, who was set to become a free-agent in July, to a five year contract extension worth $20.1 million, an average of $4.02 million per year.

  The early signing was huge for the Flames, as Giordano has displayed great skill on the blueline in his short NHL career. Giordano was signed as a free agent in 2004, and re-signed as a restricted free-agent in 2009.

"To sign a player like this before the July 1 deadline for free agency was a top priority. And it has been identified as a top priority some time ago," Flames assistant GM Jay Feaster said in a release. "It's a good day for the organization."

  It was his 2009-10 campaign the really sealed the deal in terms of a contract renewal and raise, where he posted career numbers in 82 games, scoring 11 goals and 19 assists for 30 points, a +17 rating and 81 penalty minutes.  Also in 2009-10, he played 7 games with Team Canada in the World Championships, notching 3 goals and 1 assist with a +2 rating.

  Through his four NHL seasons with the Flames Giordano has appeared in 207 games, scoring 21 goals and 48 assists for 69 points, a +30 rating and 195 PIMs.

  The 6’0 203lbs. Toronto native has shown an ability to play well worth the contract renewal and rate. He has developed into a great all-around defenseman with the ability to muck it up and stop skilled forwards, and also be able to join the rush consistently as he possesses a quick release, pass ability, and great on-ice vision.

"There's no other place I've envisioned being, I want to thank the owners and coaches for believing in me,” Giordano told the team website. “I've wanted to be part of this team, part of this city for a long time. It's a great fit.”

  The Flames got off to a torrid start this year, but have been improving steadily. Giordano has 1 goal and 3 assists with a +2 rating and 11 PIMs in 12 games this year, and will securely a strong asset for the Flames future both short and long term.

- Kendall Grubbs