Stars officially announce Gonchar signing

The Dallas Stars on Monday officially announced the signing of defenseman Sergei Gonchar to a two-year, $10 million contract.

The Stars had acquired Gonchar from the Ottawa Senators on June 7 in exchange for a 2013 sixth-round draft pick. Gonchar could have become an unrestricted free agent this summer had he not signed.

"Sergei is a high-end offensive defenseman who can quarterback a power play and help generate offense from the blue line," Stars general manager Jim Nill said. "Sergei has had an impressive NHL career and has been a big contributor to Ottawa's offense over the last three seasons. We are excited to see him continue his career here in Dallas the next two years."

Gonchar, 39, had three goals and 24 assists in 45 regular-season games, while averaging 23:59 of ice time. He added six assists in 10 Stanley Cup Playoff games.

He leads active NHL defensemen with 217 goals and 775 points, both of which rank in the top 20 all-time at the position.