The Dallas Stars have signed veteran forward Joe Pavelski to a three-year deal worth $21 million, the club announced Monday.
Pavelski, 34, will carry an average annual cap hit of $7 million with his new club.
The move will mark the first time Pavelski will wear a jersey other than that of the San Jose Sharks after spending all 13 of his NHL seasons thus far with the Californian franchise. Pavelski served as the Sharks’ captain for the last four seasons, including the franchise’s lone Stanley Cup Final run in 2016.
“Joe led by example, not only as a player but as a person, and the impact he has had on this franchise and his teammates will be felt for years to come,” Sharks general manager Doug Wilson in a statement.
“Under a cap system, these extremely difficult separations are a reality and, unfortunately, we could not find common ground on dollars and term to keep Joe in San Jose. However, like many other players around the NHL, Joe has earned the right to become a free agent. We respect his decision and want to thank Joe, his wife Sarah and son, Nate, for 13 wonderful seasons. They will always be part of the San Jose Sharks family.”
Dallas adds a proven goal-scorer in Pavelski — the veteran posted 38 goals last season, pacing his club. He finished with 64 points in 75 games overall for his eighth season with 60-plus points.
July 1, 2019
Dallas Stars
