https://tsn.ca/nhl/news_story/?ID=225091&hubname=nhl
Centre Mike Richards, who has emerged as one of the league's top two-way forwards this season, has signed a contract extension with the Philadelphia Flyers.
"I want to be here, I love the city, I love the organization and when I was given the opportunity I was excited to be here over the next twelve years," Richards relayed to the Associated Press.
TSN has learned it is a 12-year extension for $69 million that averages out at $5.75 million per year for the cap hit.
"It is a unique contract for a unique player," said Pat Morris, the agent that represents Richards, told the Associated Press. "I don't think that it will set off a trend for other players by any means."
Richards was scheduled to be a restricted free agent after this season, but the extension will take him off the market and keep him in Philadelphia.
In his third NHL season, Richards has exploded offensively. He leads the Flyers in goals (14), assists (20) and points (34).
A reflection of his complete play his season: Richards has four powerplay goals, three shorthanded goals and three game-winning goals. He also has a +10 rating.
A former first round pick, 24th overall in 2003, Richards has 35 goals and 100 points in 166 NHL games.