Jamie Benn Returns to Team After Holding Out

Mar 24, 2012; Dallas, TX, USA; Dallas Stars left wing Jamie Benn (14) congratulates goalie Kari Lehtonen (32) on his win against the Calgary Flames at the American Airlines Center. The Stars defeated the Flames 4-1. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports

Dallas, Texas–Big news Dallas Stars Fans, Jamie Benn is back! Yesterday during the 3-2 OT loss to the Chicago Blackhawks, the Stars announced that they signed forward Jamie Benn to a five-year, $26.25 million contract ($5.25 million per year–the first year of the deal is pro-rated). That is great news for the Stars as they consider Jamie Benn one of their franchise players and to have him signed for 5 years is even better. His contract will end after the 2017-18. They already have Loui Eriksson under contract until the 2015-16 season and Kari Lehtonen under contract until the 2018-19 season.

Jamie Benn is entering his fourth NHL season, all as a member of the Dallas Stars. Last season, the 23-year-old had a career year, setting personal bests in goals (26), assists (37) and points (63). He was also named to his first NHL all-star game that was held in Ottawa, Ontario Canada. He’s not expected to play Saturday because he needs to get some immigration papers work filed into the system. The earliest he can play is on Monday when they travel to Columbus to face the Blue Jackets.