Red Wings, Datsyuk Agree on Three-Year Extension

Hours after his agent revealed that Pavel Datsyuk was close to coming to terms on a contract extension with the Detroit Red Wings, Datsyuk himself confirmed that the two sides had agreed to a three-year deal.

“Signed 3 yr. extension. Detroit, glad to be here for 4 more yrs.Thanks to our fans, friends and Ilitch family.” Datsyuk tweeted.

The deal, which would keep Datsyuk in Detroit through the 2016-17 season, can’t actually be signed until July 5, per NHL rules that prevent players from signing contract extensions until the last year of their existing contract begins.

Datsyuk had previously stated that he would like to end his career in Russia’s Kontinental Hockey League, casting doubt on the possibility of him remaining with the Red Wings past next summer. He will turn 39 the summer his new contract expires, meaning this could be his final NHL contract.

In the lockout-shortened 2013 season, Datsyuk was Detroit’s leading scorer with 15 goals and 49 points. He added nine points in the playoffs.

As per club policy, financial terms of the deal were not formally announced. However, reports state that the contract will be worth $22.5 million for a salary cap hit of $7.5 million. Datsyuk made $6.7 million annually over the seven-year term of his previous contract.