When the Vegas Golden Knights signed forward Jonathan Marchessault to six-year, $30 million contract extension last month, it became apparent that they were being proactive in locking up their core players. It seemed likely the next player to get an extension would be veteran sniper James Neal, but someone else beat him to the punch.
That someone is defenseman Deryk Engelland. The Golden Knights announced Monday that they had officially signed the 35-year-old blueliner to a one-year extension worth $1.5 million, which is a $500,000 raise to his current contract’s value.
This is a bit of a surprising move, but it’s easy to see why Vegas wants to keep Engelland around for another year. He’s a Vegas local and has played a vital role both in the locker room and in the community since he was selected by the Golden Knights in the expansion draft. There’s an obvious reason why he wears a letter on his chest.
Through 41 games, Engelland has scored three goals and assisted on 10 others. With half of the season remaining, he is on pace to shatter his previous career high in just about every major statistical category.
That said, Engelland turns 36 in April. He may be having the best statistical season of his career, but it’s fair to wonder if he’ll be able to keep the momentum going next season. Then again, though, it’s not like Vegas will be paying him much money next season, so this is a pretty low-risk signing.
What say you? Do you agree with the Golden Knights’ decision to extend Engelland?
Do you agree with the Golden Knights’ decision to extend Deryk Engelland?
| Yes | 89 |
| No | 10 |