Antoine Vermette signs two-year contract with Ducks

Antoine Vermette signed a two-year contract with the Anaheim Ducks on Monday. Financial terms were not released, but the Orange County Resigter reported it is worth $3.5 million, an average annual value of $1.75 million.
"I've always portrayed [the Ducks] as Cup contenders," the forward told the Ducks website. "That's a big thing for me. I had the chance to win it not too long ago, and now later in my career, I believe in this team and organization."

Vermette, 34, was bought out by the Arizona Coyotes on Aug. 1. He had one year remaining with a $3.75 million NHL salary cap charge on a two-year contract, according to General Fanager.
"I take a lot of pride in my preparation in the summer and how I carry myself in the season," he said. "I'm 34, but I don't feel that old. I know it isn't that old, but in the game, you see so many young guys. I feel really good. I had a great summer again. I'll keep pushing hard and hopefully I can keep playing for a long time."

Vermette played 76 games last season and had 17 goals and 21 assists. He was traded from Arizona to the Chicago Blackhawks prior to the 2015 NHL Trade Deadline and had three assists in 19 regular-season games. He scored in double overtime to win Game 4 of the 2015 Western Conference Final against the Ducks; the Blackhawks won that series in seven games and went on to win the Stanley Cup.
Vermette returned to the Coyotes last season.
"This is always a tough team," he said. "When you play the Ducks, you know you're in for a big game. They're big and skilled. They use those assets really well. I'm glad to be on their side. They have a lot of tools in the lineup that can hurt you, and there are a lot of good players. I'm very excited to jump on board and find the right chemistry to give us another championship."
In 910 regular-season games, Vermette has 211 goals, 260 assists and 546 penalty minutes. He has 13 goals and 12 assists in 78 Stanley Cup Playoff games.