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Florida Panthers sign UFA Scott Gomez to one-year deal

The Florida Panthers have signed veteran forward Scott Gomez to a one-year, $900K contract.

Gomez has logged 941 games in the NHL with the New Jersey Devils, New York Rangers, Montreal Canadiens and San Jose Sharks. The Anchorage, Alaska native was selected in the first round (27th overall) by the Devils in the 1998 Entry Draft and has totaled 701 career points on 171 goals and 530 assists.

The 33-year-old veteran spent some time with the ECHL’s Alaska Aces during the NHL lockout before being bought out of his controversial contract by Montreal after the work stoppage ended. He was then signed to a one-year deal by San Jose and put up 15 points (2G/13A) in 39 games.

Gomez has played in three Stanley Cup Finals (all with New Jersey) capturing the chalice in 2000 and 2003. His career-best season came during the 2005-06 campaign, when he notched 33 goals and added 51 assists. His production has taken a steep dip over the last few seasons, so on the surface it’s doubtful he’ll be able to add that much to the offensively-challenged Panthers attack, but here’s hoping he can find some of the old magic when he takes to ice in Sunrise this fall. A low risk signing with the potential of some payoff.

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