Atlanta Thrashers sign defenceman Enstrom to $15-million, four-year extension

DULUTH, Ga. - The Atlanta Thrashers are rewarding defenceman Tobias Enstrom for a solid rookie season.

The NHL team announced Wednesday that Enstrom has signed a US$15-million, four-year contract extension that begins at the start of the 2009-'10 season.

"He was one of our key players for us last year and I think he's going to be a big part of our future," said general manager Don Waddell. "We're excited to have him signed to a long-term contract."

Enstrom, 23, recorded 38 points (5-33) and appeared in all 82 games during his rookie season in 2007-08. He was named to the 2007-08 NHL all-rookie team and also represented the Thrashers at the 2008 NHL YoungStars game.

"I really like it here," Enstrom said. "This is the team who drafted me a couple of years ago. I really want to be a part of something good coming up here.

"Last year we missed the playoffs and hopefully we can get the team going and make the playoffs this year and keep it up."

Enstrom was selected by the Thrashers in the eighth round, 239th overall, of the 2003 NHL entry draft.