CHICAGO — The Chicago Blackhawks have agreed to terms with winger Kris Versteeg on a three-year deal, the club announced Wednesday.
The 23-year-old had an impressive rookie campaign, leading all first-year pros with 31 assists while ranking second with 53 points. He was fourth among rookies with 22 goals earning him a nomination for the 2009 Calder Trophy.
“Kris’ tremendous rookie season was a big reason the team was able to go as far as it did,” Blackhawks general manager Dale Tallon said in a statement. “He is part of a core of young players that is going to make this franchise successful for a long time.”
Versteeg, who was named to the NHL’s All-Rookie Team, finished third in the league with seven short-handed points, which included four short-handed markers, tying a franchise record by a rookie.
He also recorded the first-ever goal at Wrigley Field when he scored 3:24 into the Winter Classic 2009 on Jan. 1 against Detroit, finishing the game with two points.