Brandon Duhaime signed a one-year, $1.1 million contract with the Minnesota Wild on Sunday.
The 26-year-old forward avoided an arbitration hearing, which was scheduled for July 20.
"I've only heard nightmares about arbitration, so I was really hoping it wasn't going to go there," Duhaime said Monday. "I'm glad we got something done."
Duhaime had 10 points (nine goals, one assist) in 51 regular-season games with the Wild last season, and no points in six Stanley Cup Playoff games.
He's hoping this contract isn't the last one he signs with the Wild.
"I love this team," he said. "I love the (coaching) staff; I love playing for them. I love all my teammates and just the city of Minnesota, the fans. I can't picture myself playing anywhere else. I'd be really excited if they want me to stay."
Selected by the Wild in the fourth round (No. 106) of the 2016 NHL Draft, Duhaime has 27 points (15 goals, 12 assists) in 131 regular-season games.
NHL.com independent correspondent Jessi Pierce contributed to this report
