The Atlanta Thrashers have signed defenseman Tobias Enstrom to a four-year contract extension.
"He was one of our key players for us last year and I think he's going to be a big part of our future," Thrashers GM Don Waddell said. "We're excited to have him signed to a long-term contract."
Enstrom, 23, appeared in all 82 games during his rookie season in 2007-08 and recorded five goals and 33 assists.
"I think it sends a lot of messages for our fans and for our players," Waddell added. "It shows the commitment that not only the owners but the franchise is making to one of our young players. We talked about keeping our young players and keeping them long-term and this is a big step towards that. Making the all-rookie team, being recognized by people in the league as one of the top players- he was a key guy for us to get done."
Enstrom was selected by the Thrashers in the eighth round, 239th overall, of the 2003 NHL Entry Draft.
"I really like it here. This is the team who drafted me a couple of years ago," Enstrom said. "I really want to be a part of something good coming up here. Last year we missed the playoffs and hopefully we can get the team going and make the playoffs this year and keep it up."
