The Anaheim Ducks announced on Wednesday that they have re-signed defensemen Christian Djoos to a one-year, one-way contact extension. The deal, according to The Athletic’s Eric Stephens, is worth a salary cap total of $1 million. Djoos, 25, was set to be an unrestricted free agent at the end of the season.
Anaheim Extends Djoos
Djoos, a Swedish product, was originally a seventh-round selection by the Washington Capitals in 2012. He was traded to the Ducks back in February after signing a one-year deal with the Capitals. The contract was worth a salary of $1.25 million.
The 25-year-old defensemen had spent the previous three years with two teams, this split between the Washington Capitals and the AHL’s Hershey Bears. Following two seasons in D.C., the 5’11, left-handed shooter would find himself optioned to the American Hockey League.
Given his numbers with Anaheim, it wouldn’t be much of a shock to see Djoos open the season with the San Diego Gulls. While his size isn’t his biggest asset, he’s a player who’s strength will be maximized more on the defensive end, limiting opponents. Looking at Djoos’ offensive side, the Stanley Cup champion didn’t provide much as he only put up 35 points in 53 games between Hershey and Washington.
Much like his contract with the Capitals, the 195th overall pick receives a one-year deal staying put in Anaheim. However, unlike what he got from Brian MacLellan, it’s worth just under what he made on his last contract.
In his short NHL stint this season, Djoos scored only one goal and two assists in nine total games played. This followed his 44 games where he scored five goals and 27 assists. After failing to make the Capitals roster, he put up those numbers with the Hershey Bears.
Djoos played in only two games where he didn’t produce before leaving for Anaheim. The trade saw him join the Ducks roster, meanwhile, Daniel Sprong was acquired by Washington.
The contract gives Djoos an opportunity to step up his game and find an NHL roster spot. However, he’s gonna have to put in the work for it to get himself back to what he’s known in the past. Speaking of which, Djoos was a regular in D.C., helping guide the team to Stanley Cup Finals.
He did so in 2017-18 while still adjusting to the North American game. As a rookie at the time, Djoos scored 14 points (3G, 11A) in 63 games under coach Barry Trotz. Making it into the postseason, the Capitals newest addition would take to the ice for 22 more games. He did so while chasing a goal that he hopes to achieve with his new squad in Anaheim.