Player agrees to return for 22nd season with team

The player confirmed Monday he will return for a 22nd NHL season after his wife gave clearance for at least one more year. The announcement came ten minutes after the confirmation, according to the player. A television broadcast and press conference titled “The Gr8ness Continues” followed the same day.

Contract details The team announced the contract Thursday.

It includes a $1 million salary, a $3.25 million signing bonus, and a $4.75 million performance bonus if he appears in at least 10 games. The incentive structure spreads the salary-cap impact over two seasons.

Roster changes The team completed several trades and signings before the announcement. It acquired two forwards last week and added a forward and a defenseman on Wednesday. The roster now includes 11 players who have each scored at least 20 goals in a season.

The owner said the player remains the most significant athlete in the District and that excitement among fans is palpable. The player said last season was emotionally difficult after the team missed the postseason and traded two longtime teammates. He added he still aims to help the team win and bring energy to the locker room.