Update 2:30 PM: The deal is now official, but the terms have changed. Shattenkirk is a New York Ranger. Per Frank Seravelli, Shattenkirk will earn $6.65 million per year for four years.
Original story: NHL Network's Kevin Weekes is reporting – unofficially – that defenseman Kevin Shattenkirk will sign a four-year deal with the New York Rangers for an annual value of $6.9 million. That's nice.
Acquired at the trade deadline, Shattenkirk scored 2 goals and recorded 12 assists for the Capitals in 19 regular season games. He scored an overtime game-winner in the playoffs as well. That was fun.
It's a pricey deal, but there's a lot of term for one of the most promising offensive defensemen available. And, at age 28, Shattenkirk will have some good years under the contract.
And so ends an alleged bidding war – with the NY native signing with the team everyone knew he'd sign with eventually.
Free agency opens at noon, at which point we'll expect to hear this deal made official.
Update 11:12 AM: Frank Seravalli is pouring some cold water on this one.
Talked to Shattenkirk camp. He hasn't decided where he will sign yet, reports otherwise are premature.
Update 11:22 AM: Further walked back.
Final Update: The deal is confirmed (see above) with a different price tag.