The Boston Bruins are in the thick of a playoff run, but that doesn’t mean the front office has stopped working. The team today announced a two-year, two-way extension for Anton Blidh, keeping him in the organization through the 2020-21 season. The deal will come with an NHL average annual value of $700K. Blidh was scheduled to become a restricted free agent this summer.
Blidh, 24, was a sixth-round pick by the Bruins back in 2013 and has been a big part of their AHL affiliate over the last several seasons. While he’s never been the top offensive threat for the Providence Bruins, Blidh provides a solid defensive and physical presence that carries a good amount of responsibility for the team. In 21 games at the NHL level he has just two points, but could potentially be an injury call-up next season to fill in on the fourth line.
At the league minimum of $700K, he’ll provide some inexpensive depth for the Bruins as they continue their pursuit of playoff success. Even if this season doesn’t end the way the team hopes, there is plenty of reason for hope in the future. Boston has built up a stable of young effective players that can be moved in and out of the lineup, including options like Blidh who will quietly bide their time at the AHL level.