With much of the talk surrounding the Chicago Blackhawks being about the Antti Niemi contract negotiations and trade rumors, it was a bit of a shock when it was discovered that the 'Hawks had signed prospect Igor Makarov.
The deal that Makarov signed is a two year deal worth $1.1 million, which is a cap hit of only $552,500. Makarov would be eligible to restricted free agency at the end of the deal.
The reason the deal came as a shock to so many was because of Makarov's "ultimatum" to the 'Hawks organization that he would not play in the minor league if he did not make the NHL roster.
However with this deal it seems like Makarov and his agent were positioning to make the big club even if it mean taking a serious pay cut, a move that looks like it will pay off.
Makarov was the second round pick of the Blackhawks back in the 2006 draft where he was selected 33rd overall.
Since being drafted Makarov has played KHL, formerly the Russian Superleague, and has had difficulty finding minutes to produce consistently.
Initially looking at his numbers you would think he might be a bust in the making but if you look clo ...
Read Full Article at Bleacher Report - NHL
Article written by Michael Wagner
NHL Free Agents 2010: Prospect Igor Makarov Signs with Chicago Blackhawks
July 15th, 2010 by Michael Wagner Leave a reply »
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