Ryan Kesler prepares to speak to the media on Thursday May 9, 2013. Kesler has signed a contract extension with the Anaheim Ducks.DARRYL DYCK/The Canadian Press
Centre Ryan Kesler has agreed to a six-year, U.S. $41.25-million contract extension with the Anaheim Ducks.
Anaheim announced the new deal Wednesday.
Kesler had 20 goals, 27 assists and 75 penalty minutes last season in his first year with Anaheim after nine seasons with the Vancouver Canucks. The American veteran filled a key role as the Ducks' second-line centre while matching up with most teams' top line.
Kesler also had seven goals and six assists in a standout playoff effort for the three-time Pacific Division champion Ducks, who fell one game short of the Stanley Cup Final.
Kesler has one year left on his current contract. His new deal has an average annual value of $6.875-million and extends through the 2021-22 season, when he will be 37 years old.