Lightning sign Hedman to 8-year, $63M contract extension

The Tampa Bay Lightning have locked up their franchise defenseman.

Defenseman Victor Hedman has signed an eight-year contract extension worth $63 million, meaning an average annual valuation of $7.875 million.

The 25-year-old was selected second overall by the Lightning at the 2009 NHL Draft, and he has lived up to the billing of a high pick.

Through 470 career games in Tampa, Hedman is averaging 0.49 points per game, with positive possession numbers and a physical presence to round out his elite-level game.

Hedman will become the Lightning's second-highest paid player following an expected eight-year, $68 million deal to be signed by Steven Stamkos.