Rovers retain Murray, sign four UFAs

Iqaluit, NU (CP)

Though he did test the free agent waters, Glen Murray didn’t want to play anywhere else.   This was confirmed Wednesday night as he and three other free agents inked deals with the Rovers on the first day of signings.  Murray, who has not missed a game for Baffin since being acquired late in RHL12, signed a two year contract worth more than $2.4M per season.  The deal includes a no-trade clause for this upcoming season, which was big for Murray and his family.  The contract is cheaper than his previous four year contract with the Rovers, but Murray said it was never about the money.  “I wanted to stay here, the team wanted me to stay here, and my family wants to stay here.  They offered me the security of the no-trade, and we agreed on an adequate number for salary.  I’m very excited about the next two years”.

With a need for forwards, the Rovers also signed three versatile centers to one year contracts.  Shawn Bates agreed to a deal which pays him $1.1M for this season, while ex-Rover Jamie Lundmark and former Mountie Jan Hrdina signed on at $387,000 for RHL17.  Lundmark started last season with the Rovers but was released at the trade deadline as a cost-saving measure, while the Rovers pursued Hrdina through trade talks that ultimately didn’t pan out.  Bates has spent the last four seasons in Yellowknife with the Penetrators, where he was a faceoff and corner presence, as well as an effective penalty killer.  He is expected to provide the same in Baffin Island.  “We’re excited about bring Shawn on board.  He’ll solidify our bottom 6 forward group and be a big presence on our PK.  Jamie and Jan both bring depth to the team, and there’s an excellent opportunity for at least one of them to see regular action”.