Flames lock up Blair Jones and Lee Stempniak for two years

 

 

On the heels of the Sarich re-signing, the Flames announced a new deal with center Blair Jones this afternoon. The contract is for two years with a cap hit of $650,000. In addition, the re-signed RW Lee Stempniak for $2.5M per year for two years.

The deal for Jones is a good one. He’s a player who has mostly been a ‘tweener during his career, but last year showed the potential to be a capable third or fourth line defensive type pivot. Even if he doesn’t take that next step and prove to be an everday NHLer, at just 650k Jones is as cheap a contract you can find in the NHL. If, however, he manages to develop into a guy who can take on reasonable tough competition semi-regularly, Flames have a bargain on their hands.

On Stempniak, the Flames get a 20-goal, 40-point type third liner who can move up the depth chart in a pinch. Stempniak moved the puck north pretty well last year and brings some depth to the wings. At $2.5M and two years, his deal is another good gamble by the organization.

Thumbs up all around.