The Nashville Predators have agreed to a seven-year, $31.5 million contract with forward Martin Erat. Erat was due to become a restricted free agent.
"Martin Erat is a perfect example of this organization's philosophy," Predators GM David Poile said in a statement.
"He came to us as a seventh-round draft pick, and grew steadily into an elite player when given an opportunity to succeed. He has continued to take on more responsibility and is an integral part of our team moving forward. We look forward to his leadership and production for the next seven years."
Erat, 26, scored a career high 26 goals this past season and tied a personal best with 57 points. The Predators selected Erat
with the 191st overall pick in the 1999 Entry Draft.
The 6-foot-0, 195-pound left winger is currently representing the Czech Republic at the IIHF World Championships in Halifax and Quebec City.