Pens sign Craig Adams to 2-yr deal

The Pittsburgh Penguins signed UFA to be Craig Adams to a 2-yr deal at $1.1 million. He will get $550k in the next two seasons.

Here's what GM Ray Shero had to say: “Craig is a steady, reliable, physical player who was an important part of our mix this season,” Shero said. “He plays with a lot of grit, but he also contributed some key goals in the playoffs and was very effective as a penalty-killer. We’re glad to be able to sign him for two more years.”

My Take: This was a great signing by Shero as Adams took a slight pay cut ($50k) to stay for the two year duration as a Penguin. He's a tremendous role player and does all the little things well. This likely spells the end of Dupuis and his $1.4 mil salary which would save us $850k if we were able to deal him. Several teams are interestedin him including Min, NYI, and Edm.
This might also spell the end of Zigomanis, although they need a 4th line center. Could Dustin Jeffrey be put in the mix next year? We'll see. But signing Adams for this contract and dealing Dupuis would still give them money to sign Ziggy, 2 forwards, and a defenseman (or 2).

OTHER UFA news: The Carolina Hurricanes came to terms with their UFA to be Jussi Jokinen at a 2 yr/$3.4 mil deal. The Canes picked Jokinen off waivers near the end of the year and it turned out to be a great addition. Jokinen had one goal and 11 points in 25 regular season games but scored seven goals and 11 points in 18 playoff games. Including a couple game winners in overtime. Not bad playoff numbers for a mid-season waiver pickup.