Photo by Andrew Knapik/MiHockey

Jack Johnson signs with Pittsburgh; list of Michigan names signing new deals

By @MichaelCaples –

The first day of the NHL free agency period was more than just John Tavares Watch.

Along with signings by the Detroit Red Wings, there have been some notable signings for Michigan names; MiHockey is keeping tabs on all of our guys and we’re updating this list as we go.

Jack Johnson to Pittsburgh

The widely-reported deal is now official – Jack Johnson has joined the Penguins. The Ann Arbor native and NTDP/Michigan alum has signed a five-year deal worth $16.25 million with Pittsburgh after he spent seven years with the Columbus Blue Jackets.

Greg Pateryn to Minnesota

Sterling Heights native Greg Pateryn is venturing into the State of Hockey. The University of Michigan alum has signed a three-year deal with the Minnesota Wild at $2.25 million per season.

Austin Czarnik to Calgary

Washington Township native Austin Czarnik has signed a two-year deal with the Calgary Flames at $1.25 million.

Ian Cole to Colorado

Ann Arbor native Ian Cole is joining the Red Wings’ old rival in Colorado. Cole, a NTDP and Notre Dame product, has signed a three-year deal with the Avalanche, at $4.25 million per.

Petr Mrazek to Carolina

Former Red Wings goaltender Petr Mrazek has signed a one-year deal with the Carolina Hurricanes at $1.5 million.

Xavier Ouellet to Montreal

Former Red Wings defenseman Xavier Ouellet has signed a one-year, two-way deal with the Montreal Canadiens, worth $700,000 at the NHL level.

Scott Wedgewood to Buffalo

Former Plymouth Whalers goaltender Scott Wedgewood has left Los Angeles for Buffalo, signing a one-year deal with the Sabres at $650,000.

Chris Kuntiz to Chicago

Former Ferris State star Chris Kunitz has signed a one-year deal with the Chicago Blackhawks.

Kevin Gravel to Edmonton

Kingsford native Kevin Gravel has joined the Edmonton Oilers organization with a one-year deal.