David Clarkson Avoids Contract Snags with Devils

The New Jersey Devils avoided a contract holdout by signing one of their young, core players.  At 26-years-old, David Clarkson will find security with the team through the 2012-2013 season for $8-million – a steep price but potential for a great reward.

Clarkson played with the team for the past four seasons, finishing with a career high with 17 goals in 2008-2009.  It was only because he missed 36 games this past season that he did not at least eclipse the 20 goal marker.

His entire season without injuries projected to 20 goals, 22 assists and 152 PIM.   Playing on a strong Devils team and seeing powerplay time with Travis Zajac and Zach Parise should help boost his value even farther and will make an excellent 2/3 winger for an owner who needs a PIM boost.