Esa Lindell Signs Five-Year Extension with Stars

The Dallas Stars have secured defenseman Esa Lindell with a five-year contract extension worth $26.25 million, averaging $5.25 million annually. Lindell, 30, was previously entering the final year of a six-year contract and opted for this extension to avoid unrestricted free agency next summer. Last season, he played all 82 games, recording five goals and contributing significantly to the team's penalty kill. His new deal includes a no-trade clause for the first three years and a 20-team no-trade list for the final two. This extension reflects the Stars' commitment to keeping a core defensive player during their championship pursuit. The team is also working on a deal for restricted free agent Thomas Harley as training camps approach.