Edmonton Oilers defenceman Denis Grebeshkov celebrates his first goal in the NHL.John Ulan
The Edmonton Oilers have bolstered their blueline by re-signing defenceman Denis Grebeshkov to a one-year contract.
Last season in Edmonton, Grebeshkov had seven goals, 32 assists and 38 penalty minutes in 72 games - all career highs. He also led the Oilers with a plus-minus differential of plus-12.
"I'm very happy to be returning to the Oilers and the city of Edmonton," Grebeshkov said in a statement released by the club Tuesday. "I've really enjoyed my time in Edmonton and I can't wait to start next season."
The six-foot, 209-pound native of Yaroslavl, Russia, has played 176 career NHL games with the Los Angeles Kings, New York Islanders and Oilers, recording 63 points (10 goals 53 assists) and 80 penalty minutes.
Originally drafted 18th overall by Kings in the 2002 NHL draft, Grebeshkov was obtained from the New York Islanders in exchange for defenceman Marc-Andre Bergeron and a third round draft choice on February 18, 2007.
Grebeshkov, 25, has represented Russia at three world junior hockey championships (2001, 2002 and 2003) and three world hockey championships (2007, 2008 and 2009), helping his country win consecutive gold medals in 2008 and 2009.