Arizona Coyotes sign Karel Vejmelka to three year extension with $2.725-million AAV

The Arizona Coyotes and goaltender Karel Vejmelka have agreed to a contract extension with a $2.725-million AAV for three years.

Vejmelka was a bit of a surprise candidate as a starting option for the Coyotes, as they went into the season with Carter Hutton and Scott Wedgewood between the pipes. Injuries to both goalies led to Vejmelka getting a shot in the crease, and he’s been solid, especially considering the play of the team in front of him.

Vejmelka is currently on a one-year deal with a $925,000 AAV, signed out of the Czech League after playing 35 games last season with HC Kometa Brno and posting a .911 save percentage. Originally a fifth-round draft pick of the Nashville Predators, Vejmelka hadn’t played in the NHL until this season.

He currently has a 10-23-1 record this season with the Coyotes and a .905 save percentage. While those stats don’t sound amazing, it’s a bit more impressive when you remember that he has 10 of the Coyotes’ 20 wins on the season.

This extension comes after the Coyotes traded Wedgewood last night to the Dallas Stars for a fourth-round pick, solidifying that they seem committed to Vejmelka being the starter or at least holding a substantial role for the next few years during their rebuild.

Be sure to check out our Trade Tracker for up-to-date information on all of the deals made on NHL Trade Deadline Day.