11th year defenseman Nick Holden(44) signs a two-year deal on the opening day of unrestricted free agency with Vegas Golden Knights.
The big blue liner was sent by his club of almost two seasons, New York Rangers to Boston Bruins close to the 2017/2018 trade deadline and for the first time in a few campaigns became an extra inserted into the lineup when necessary but was always super-effective with an offensive upside.
He’s appeared in 374 NHL games with 36 goals and 76 assists with a +9 rating and 6 game-winning tallies.
The 31-year old will likely become an integral player in Sin City backline and could very well break scoring totals he set a couple years ago.
Nick Holden (5)
Columbus Blue Jackets‘ undrafted defenseman Nick Holden(5) re-signed for another year, his 5th with the team since turning pro in 2008.
His deal is for one-year on a two-way contract.
He was scheduled to become an unrestricted free agent.
He missed two-thirds of the 2011/2012 season with an injury, limiting him to just 25 regular season AHL games (3 goals, 6 assists, -2 plus/minus) with Springfield Falcons.
He’s played 222 games minor league contests and put up 17 goals and 62 assists.
In 2010/2011 he made his first NHL appearances, when he was called up for a 5-game stint.
Although he didn’t register a point, he skated an average of 20+ shifts and 17 minutes per game.
At 6’4″ 205 lbs. he’s a towering presence on the ice.
With a little more weight and a bit more grit and he could find himself a permanent spot on a big league roster, if he wants it.