The St. Louis Blues gave Jori Lehtera a big raise after his first season in the NHL handing the 27-year-old a three-year deal worth $14.1-million. Lehtera, who recorded 44 points (14g-30a) in 75 games this season, will have an annual average cap hit of $4.7-million.
The extension won’t kick in until the start of the 2016-17 season, as the Blues still have Lehtera under contract for the upcoming season at $2.75-million. Lehtera added two assists in five playoff games during the Blues’ short run this past season.
Lehtera has the ability to play the game in all situations adding two powerplay goals and one shorthanded goal in 2014-15 to go along with a plus-21 rating. While the Blues haven’t done a lot in terms of changing the on-ice personnel of the team, inking Lehtera shows the management is looking ahead in maintaining good pieces.
While he’s still considered unproven in the NHL, Lehtera has shown that he can provide ample offence throughout his hockey career – something St. Louis was sure to take into consideration in extending the Helsinki native.
For all the latest from Free Agent Frenzy, check out The Hockey Writers’ live free agent tracker.
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