The Ducks have come to terms with one of their two remaining restricted free agents, announcing that they have re-signed center Rickard Rakell to a six year deal. TSN’s Bob McKenzie adds that the deal will carry a cap hit of $3.8MM (Twitter link).
Rakell had been named to Sweden’s roster for the World Cup of Hockey but had to withdraw due to complications arising from an appendectomy he had back in March. While he was able to play in pre-tournament action last month, he was hospitalized shortly thereafter. He has since received the green light to resume training.
Last season was Rakell’s second full NHL campaign and he improved on his freshman numbers. In 72 games last year, he potted 20 goals and added 23 assists while averaging 16:04 in ice time. He also played in all seven postseason games, picking up another goal and an assist.
Once Rakell is able to return to the lineup (which will be at least a couple of weeks away, Eric Stephens of the OC Register reports via Twitter), it’s likely that he will play as the Ducks’ second line center behind Ryan Getzlaf.
[Related: Ducks Depth Chart]
Anaheim still has one remaining RFA to deal with in defenseman Hampus Lindholm. Cap space is at a premium for the team, as they have less than $400K in room to work with per Cap Friendly (though that amount will increase slightly when they remove someone from the roster to open up a spot for Rakell). Still, it seems likely that they will need to make a trade when they do come to terms with their young blueliner.
Yes!! I have been checking in on this regularly. I’m glad the Ducks locked Rakell up for the next 6 years. It’ll be interesting to see how Hampus’ situation shakes out.
Thank you finally. Now they should move fowler out for lindholm